The Mining Hall of Fame located in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia is set to take on a new life as a mining training centre but still operate as a tourist attraction. The WA government will invest $3 million to upgrade the popular tourist site to be used for practical training purposes.

Murray Cowper, Minister for Training and Workforce Development, said an Advanced Diploma in Mining Engineering Para Professional course will help workers improve their skills so they can move from operational roles into para-professional jobs.

Other courses involve theory and practical requirements needed for a Quarry Manager’s Certificate and an Underground Supervisor’s Certificate. A career pathway for a First Class Mine Manager bridging course and qualification is also planned.

“The Mining Hall of Fame is a valuable community asset. With Government, community and industry working together, we now look forward to a positive future which meets the needs of the mining industry while preserving the historic and tourist attractions of the past,” Mr Cowper said.

The Goldfields Institute of Technology will operate the new training courses aimed at current mining industry employees. Candidates for the training will be sponsored by employers. Ideally, these candidates will have five or more years experience in the mining game.

“The 18-month course mixes on the job training with multimedia learning and assessment resources. At the end of this time, candidates will have a nationally recognised qualification to undertake management support roles at an open cut or underground mine site,” explained Mr. Cowper.

“As the students are employer sponsored, it is likely that the course will attract participants from across Western Australia and not just the Goldfields.”

So far the response has been positive. About 30 students have been enrolled in the first course which starts this month.

For more information about the Mining Hall of Fame, read our article in the All You Need To Know section on Mining and Metals in our Careers and Industry Guide.