30 lucky year 11 students experienced the trip of a lifetime to Northern Star Resources’ Super Pit in June, after winning the Gold Industry Group’s (GIG) Resources Technology Showcase (RTS) competition among 150 other schools.
Woodvale Secondary College students and science teachers Amanda Moreno Diaz, Fiona May and Kyle Wiggers, flew to Kalgoorlie on 10 June to explore one of the largest gold mines in the world, the famous Super Pit gold mine, and some of the top sights in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. Participants got an up close look at the scale of the operation and insights into the diverse careers in gold mining from Northern Star employees during a guided tour and careers session.
The students were in awe of the experience, sharing their thanks for the eye-opening opportunity.
“This was a great once in a lifetime experience that opened my eyes to the various jobs within mining industries,” said Francesca Shadabi.
“I would like to thank the Gold Industry Group for sponsoring the entire trip. Being able to go out and see new career paths and how some job sites work with being sponsored is a blessing and was a great experience. This was a great trip, and I would never have gone to the Super Pit if it wasn't for this opportunity,” Joseph Ong said.
“Thank you so much for giving us such an amazing experience. I will never forget this trip and I am so grateful I was accepted to take part. It has opened my eyes to new careers and the whole world of mining,” Marni Cloete added.
The excursion had the students discover firsthand other aspects of the industry which have created the Australian community we live in today.
By midday, they explored the Museum of the Goldfields and unearthed famous local landmarks walking the self-guided Kalgoorlie Heart of Gold Discovery Trail using the free Heart of Gold Australia app.
Samara Grinceri expressed how she really appreciated the opportunity to explore a new place in a relaxed environment.
“I have never been to Kalgoorlie before so having this chance was awesome. I also loved the trips trust in us as a group, they allowed us to wander around and do our own thing at some of the attractions. I also appreciated how there was a focus on jobs and careers, it wasn't an overwhelming amount, which allowed us to just enjoy being in Kalgoorlie and seeing the Super Pit,” said Samara.
“Thank you for an excellent day. I had a great time and experience with my friends and will always remember it in the years to come. I also really appreciated that it didn't feel as though we were being forced to join the mining industry, and we were able to form our own, mostly positive, opinions about the whole experience,” added Jack Duckworth.
The class then immersed in the local heritage at the Hannans North Tourist Mine where they panned for gold to finish their afternoon.
Hayley Murray shared how grateful she was for the amazing opportunity and thankful for all that she was able to do and learn.
“All of the people who talked to us and took us around the places that we went to were so kind and welcoming. All the places that we visited were so interesting and exciting.
“I loved walking around town and learning about the history of the town and seeing all the old buildings. All the activities were really fun. Thank you so much for allowing us to participate in the incredible experience, it opened my eyes to more possible career pathways,” said Hayley.
For more details on the Resources Technology Showcase, visit the RTS website.
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Some photos featured are courtesy of Seven West Media.