The Official Journal of the Prospectors and Miners Association of 'PMAV' The REG No A0000422H

Volume 23 No. 1 Print Post Approved PP334385/00074 March 2004

Government Launches In this Issue

New Mining Policy Association News 2-4 The Minister for Energy Industries and launch of the policy the Minister Resources, Theo Theophanous, launched confirmed the Government’s recognition Presidents Report 4 a new Government policy in relation to of the tradition of small-scale mining in mining on 3rd December 2003. Victoria and their support for the News from the Department 6 continuation of this tradition. The policy has good news for PMAV A Truce Between members. Prospectors are treated well with If any of those attending the launch of the Parks Victoria & Prospectors 7 quotes like ‘The Bracks Government aim policy needed a reminder about the is to support outdoor activities such as importance of our sector they just needed prospecting and tourism, while also to look at the replicas of the Welcome The Perth Mint 8 ensuring that our environment is Stranger and Hand of Faith nuggets as protected, particularly in areas such as our they walked through the foyer of the Old Maryborough Gold Gem remnant box-ironbark forests’ and ‘The Treasury Building on their way to the & Treasure Expo 9 Bracks Government will continue to take launch. Small-scale miners/prospectors steps to ensure access for prospectors in found those nuggets and they will be BUG News 10 many areas of the newly formed Box- remembered long after the current suite of ironbark Parks and will ensure that larger mining projects have finished and Gold Investment 12 prospecting can continue to take place in been forgotten. Victoria, provided it is done in an Copies of the policy can be viewed at environmentally acceptable manner’. www.dpi.vic.gov.au/minpet (search for Small-scale mining is not specifically Promoting Victoria’s Prospects) or at any mentioned in the policy document but branch meeting. The oath made when questioned on this matter at the by the diggers The Nuggets Keep at Eureka on Coming Easter 2004 Maryborough Gold Gem “We swear by the This 18.5 oz piece was unearthed & Treasure Expo or Southern Cross to in Central Victoria in the last few weeks. The Gemboree at Lardner Park stand truly by each There are two big events for prospectors other & fight to defend over the Easter weekend. Full details inside our rights & liberties”. this Echo.

The Eureka Echo Breaks Distribution Record Eureka 150 The level of demand for the Echo means that 4000 copies of this edition will be printed and distributed. 1854 - 2004 18.5oz Unknown Location

THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 PAGE 1 Association News Officers of the PMAV: President Rita Bentley (03) 9572 1578 BH Melbourne Branch Report Vice President Jeff Douglas (03) 5475 1718 Secretary Allan Rossiter (03) 5444 0470 AH Since the last Echo we have had no field trips but we had our Treasurer Geoff Strang (03) 9532 0868 AH first meeting for 2004 with over 50 members attending. We Committee Eric Grummett (03) 9729 1026 Clyde Leatham (03) 5971 2877 had two guest speakers with the first demonstrating their Don Brereton (03) 9714 8329 range of camper trailers and the second showing their range of Rex Motton [email protected] Paul Wilks (03) 9720 3273 12 volt and solar light panels much to everyone’s interest. As On Line Branch: question time threatened to become an all night session I have Contact Steve Barnham [email protected] asked them to come back for another meeting and carry on (03) 5348 3668 the session. Central Victorian Branch (Maryborough): Contact Tony Mills (03) 5461 3217 Our meetings continue to be held on the second Tuesday of the (03) 5461 5067 Fax month at Miners Den starting at 7.30 but there is a new rule. If East Gippsland Branch (Stratford): President Stephen Dingwall (03) 5147 1186 AH you are under 50 you must bring your own chair. Why you ask? (03) 5147 3285 Fax Because we haven`t got enough for everybody. Vice President Jim Harrap (03) 5144 6470 Secretary John Munn (03) 5143 0754 Geoff Strang—Melbourne Branch Coordinator. Treasurer Martin Byrne (03) 5147 1618 Branch meets Miners Den, Mitcham—second Tuesday of each month South West Branch (Ballarat): President Keith Roberts (03) 5334 0302 East Gippsland Branch 0402 632 288 Mobile Vice President & Treasurer (Stratford) Report Alan Troop (03) 5348 6617 Secretary Eric Wooding (03) 5341 2209 We held our Christmas break-up and BBQ at our meeting in West Gippsland Branch (Drouin): President Colin Johnson (03) 5623 5329 November and then went into recess until January. Vice President Robert Bormann (03) 5627 8557 Secretary/Treasurer Our only field trip was another sortie to Mount Wills which was Doug Prestige (03) 5160 1424 well attended and proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable weekend North East Branch (Yackandandah): or so I have been told by all those that made it. (Due to a slight President (02) 6027 3412 Vice President Pat Wyatt (02) 6027 1137 mechanical failure I unfortunately didn’t get far past Bairnsdale Secretary Bill Gleeson (03) 5744 1263 and had to spend the weekend prospecting for parts in Treasurer Steve Newland (02) 6056 0753 Bairnsdale.) The gold was a bit scarce apparently but the Melbourne Branch: camping was great and there are still a few missing mines that Contact Geoff Strang (03) 9532 0868 AH (03) 9532 0868 Fax have to be found. The grass and under-growth is getting a bit Grampians Branch: long now so there is not much time left before the scrub once Contact Andrew Overton 0409 357 153 again reclaims this goldfield. Small Miners Action Group: Contact Jeff Douglas 0408 176 496 Mobile Cheers Rex Motton [email protected] Steve Dingwall —President- East Gippsland Branch The postal address of the PMAV is: Branch meets RSL Hall, Stratford, last Thursday of each month Prospectors and Miners Association of Victoria Inc. GPO Box 1706P, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001 North East Branch Fax No: (03) 9572 1579 Email: [email protected] (Yackandandah) Report General inquiry number: 0408 176 496 The PMAV website is: www.pmav.asn.au And: http://groups.msn.com/PMAV Despite the hot weather the North East Branch’s first meeting for the year in January was well attended. The Branch Gold Deadline for Material Month Published panning demonstration that is planned for the Albury Camping, 14th May 2004 June 2004 4wd & Leisure Show is well on the way with the planning The Eureka Echo is distributed to prospectors, the mining industry, politicians and other individuals and organisations with an interest committee holding a couple of meetings to organise the event. It in assisting and/or promoting the mining and prospecting industries. will be held from March 26th thru 28th at the Albury All editorial material in the Eureka Echo may be reproduced without Showgrounds. This should give the Branch some good exposure permission, however acknowledgments would be appreciated. and help promote the activities of the PMAV as a whole. Disclaimer Opinions expressed are those of the original authors and do Meeting dates for the coming months are: Wednesday 17th not necessarily reflect those of the Editor or the Association. March & Wednesday 19th May starting at 7.30 pm. All welcome. Persons acting on any opinion, advice, fact or advertisement Jeff Kennett—President, North East Branch published in this issue do so at their own risk. Branch meets Yackandandah Senior Citizens, Wellsford St Yackandandah, Wholly produced in bi-monthly 3rd Wednesday To Advertise in the Eureka Echo, phone 0408 176 496 PAGE 2 THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 Association News

South West Branch the display also thankyou to all the people Central Victorian (Ballarat) Report who helped make both Yarragon and (Maryborough) Noojee such a success. Branch Report Our first meeting for this year was on 18th The latest field trip was panning in the February with our AGM scheduled for Latrobe River at the horseshoe, Neerim Branch meetings have been so popular in 17th March. We are hoping for a large South—but that report will have to wait recent months that it has been virtually turnout at the AGM. I would like to say a ‘til next time. standing room only at the Coiltek Gold big thankyou to all those who helped out Colin Johnson—President —West Gippsland Branch Centre. The PMAV membership drive has in the year past and trust that this year’s Branch meets CWA Hall, 10 Sinclair St, Drouin certainly been successful in our region. If committee will have a lot of new faces. —second Thursday of each month Editors note: last issue we advised incorrect meeting the growth in membership continues, we Unfortunately a few branch members have date, apologies for any inconvenience. may have to hire the Maryborough Town been unwell: Eric Wooding—who we all Hall for future meetings. It's been very hope is on the mend after his operation Grampians Branch gratifying to see some of the original and Len Goldsmith, one of our longtime Report miners and detector operators from the members has broken a leg, so we hope he early days rejoining to support the PMAV. too has a speedy recovery. Whilst most of us have been avoiding the We were all saddened by the tragic accidental hot weather and not leaving the comfort of Xmas is well and truly gone but that death of Phil Gibbs, a valued member of our our air conditioners, a few brave souls have is when we had our end of year picnic branch for many years. Phil was always been prospecting and finding some good at Slatey Creek, Creswick. Not only did willing to give us his support when needed. gold. Some noteworthy lumps of 1.75oz, we have a great day but gold was detected. One of the last of the small-scale miners in 2.5oz and 3.6oz have recently been found I set the challenge by saying they would the area, he will be sadly missed. in the Grampians region by our members. not find any, I was soon proved wrong. Quite a large number of smaller pieces Central branch members have been busy It was a great picnic and a good turnout. have been found too. representing the PMAV at a number of We hope to raise some more funds with joint meetings with Parks Victoria in Our January combined outing with a garage sale to happen soon. recent weeks. Thankyou to those who Central Branch at Avoca was a success with attended and helped in explaining what us We look forward to this year being newcomers and a few Melbourne branch gold prospectors do. a success, more so because Ballarat will be members also attending. About 20 small on the minds of all those interested in gold pieces were found which made the day In January a few of us travelled to Avoca to as we celebrate 150 years since Eureka. very encouraging. Yours truly did well with attend the Grampians branch field day, Keith Roberts – President South West Branch the lunchtime barbeque (by all accounts) which was a great success. Thanks go to Branch meets Old Colonists Club, Lydiard St, with most attendees enjoying the steak, Andrew 'Pennyweight' Overton for Ballarat—7.30pm, 3rd Wednesday of each month chops and sausages at the Riverside Park organising the event. We look forward to pavilion. Thanks to Tony Mills for future field trips with the Grampians mob. West Gippsland providing the bread and salad. Don't forget we need your support at the Branch (Drouin) Report Further combined outings are planned for Gold Gem & Treasure Expo on 10th & Nothing much happened over the the future with the next one set for 11th April at Maryborough. Please contact Christmas period until the field trip to Redbank on 6th March. Any other me on (03 ) 5461 3217 for details on how Happy Valley on 31st January. The weather members are encouraged to come along. you can help. was good and about 25 small nuggets were Notices will be sent to all branches Tony Mills—Central Vic. Branch Rep. advising of dates and locations. Branch meets last Monday, every second month at found. A good time was had by all. Coiltek. The Grampians branch New Year raffle is Next branch meeting Monday 29th March, 2004, There was a good attendance at the 7.30 pm start. Yarragon Gem Show on the 17th & 18th closing, many thanks to all branches who January with a great display of gold and obtained ticket books to sell amongst their mining tools. The panning was a success members. Winners will be advised immediately Thank-You with the kids up to their armpits in water. after drawing and the results published in the next Echo and on the new website. Eric & Anna Wooding and family would The Noojee Festival on the 7th & 8th Andrew Overton (Pennyweight) like to extend their sincere thanks to all for February was also a success with another Grampians Branch Convenor your support and good wishes during good display and lots of interest in the Eric's illness. panning pool. A special thanks must go to Rob & Barney for their great effort to erect

THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 PAGE 3 Association News

Small Miners Action unreasonable environmental standards forward to the Department the six- Group (SMAG) Report imposed by the Department of ‘Sparks and monthly returns—even through you don’t Embers’ (DSE). agree to this extortion racket. In view of the current environmental ‘green It is good to have at hand numerous Hopefully we will have something more doom’ movement’s agenda of ridding the examples of the unnecessary limitations positive to report for the next Echo. land of the small scale miner—totally placed on the miner. We intend to meet Rex Motton/Jeff Douglas, SMAG Convenors endorsed by the ‘Bracksward’ Government formally with departmental officials in the of course—SMAG has been inundated near future. Notification will be made of meetings directly with calls from across the State conveying with those who have registered with this branch. A further reminder about native title, you their displeasure at the lack of action by To register send a message requesting registration bureaucrats in assisting the small scale must make a genuine attempt to negotiate with SMAG to: [email protected] miner—unless it is to cancel your licence. in good faith with Native Title Services Victoria. Keep copies of all relevant The three main areas of concern are native documentation, minutes of meetings, title, public liability insurance and diary dates of all communication and

President’s Report

This time of year is typically Our membership drive is off to a good start with an increase of fairly quiet, with Parliament in approximately 10%. recess and public servants on I still urge all prospectors and miners who are not members to holidays the frenetic pace of join up. We need you and you need us! activity within the Association is normally a little slower. Eureka 150 plans are starting to come together. We will be holding the AGM on the day after the anniversary – i.e. on This has allowed me the Saturday 4th December. Plans are well underway for the Eureka pleasure of attending the dinner on the actual anniversary – 3rd December - with a special Central Victorian Branch guest speaker for both events. Other matters are still under meeting and being the guest discussion and we will let you know as soon as the plans become Rita Bentley speaker for the Victorian Seekers firm. But please make sure you keep the dates free. Special Club. I was very pleased to see acknowledgment to Keith Roberts for the effort and time he has the keen attendance and strong put in to seeking a venue for this special AGM. support for the work of the Association at both meetings. My best wishes to strong PMAV supporters Ian Hayward and Eric Wooding who are both recovering from serious illnesses. I am pleased to advise that this has been a very positive quarter for the Association. Although the challenges continue, it is clear Plans for PMAV attendance at this year’s Gold Expo are we are making progress on many issues. I was particularly underway and we hope to see many members present – visit the pleased with the Parks Victoria/Advisory Groups meeting in PMAV stand for a chat. The Gippsland Branches are heading to Castlemaine in February and as a result I am hopeful that after the Gemboree at Lardner for Easter, so for a change of scenery all the work and resources that went into the box ironbark why not pop down to Warragul? I understand that attendance at campaign we look like getting a fair result. the Gemboree is huge – running into the many thousands. This isn’t to say that it will be easy. We still have to have strong As we head into Autumn the goldfields become a bit more representation in the process but the first big steps have been in welcoming. A few cooler days normally zaps the mozzies and the right direction – after a short detour by Parks Victoria which March flies, the ground stops being equally as hot as the sun’s a few of our readers will know about. rays, the days are still a reasonable length and there is still plenty of gold out there waiting to be found. I would like to thank all those who participated in the Parks Victoria meeting, your passion and beliefs about prospecting Go get some! shone through, well done! Rita Bentley

PAGE 4 THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 Start a Safety System Gold Week 2004 Sunday 18th April With A Checklist to Saturday 24th April

Every workplace, whether large or small, needs a system Gold Week 2004 includes events across Australia highlighting for managing health and safety. different aspects of the gold industry including investment, jewellery, exploration and mining. One simple way to see how your workplace measures up is to ask yourself—with the help of your workmates Events include: —the following questions: The Great Gold Hunt •Have we identified all the potential hazards, and assessed Join in the hunt to ‘dig up’ $5,000 worth of gold and discover all the risks at the mine? the thrill of a modern day gold rush. • What measures are in place to deal with the risks? •Do they work? The Great Gold Hunt is an Internet competition where you •Do we have a health and safety policy that clearly states have the chance to win $5,000 worth of gold by guessing where the health and safety objectives and commitment? the nugget is hidden on the Australian mainland. • Who is on the health and safety committee, or if there is no Sovereign Hill committee, how do we all have a say in health and safety? •Do we give responsibility for any health and safety Unique activities and tours will take place during Gold Week, issues to a specific person at work? including a special exhibition with Australia’s largest gold • When we need help, do we get advice from a qualified nugget, the Newmont Normandy Nugget. health and safety professional? National Gold Mine Open Day •Are we bringing in any problems? Do we assess all the equipment that we buy, or borrow or hire, People throughout Australia will have a rare opportunity to see or any hazards before we bring it onto the mine? how major gold mines operate when they are opened to the •Do we have a training program? public for National Gold Mine Open Day. •How do we tell everyone about health and safety issues? Australia’s largest gold mines will provide a behind-the-scenes Is there a notice board on site? look at the modern gold industry. •Do we have a schedule and checklists for regular Australian Gold Conference inspections of the mine? •Have we thought about what sort of emergencies The Australian Gold Conference is the gold industry’s premier could happen and how we would deal with them? information event. It will be held on 19 April in Perth and be •Do we have regular emergency drills? followed by the Annual Gold Industry Gala Dinner. • Who has the right training to take charge in an emergency? For more information visit: www.goldweek.com.au. •Do we have someone who has a first-aid ticket to deal with the sort of problem that may arise at the mine? Information provided by Graeme McLaughlan, Chief Inspector of Mines & Quarries

THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 PAGE 5 News from the Department

Organisational Changes in Minerals These are important changes and will not be without their and Petroleum Division opportunities and challenges. The Division will be working to ensure that these transitions Minerals and Petroleum Division recently announced some are as smooth as possible and that we do not compromise structural changes with the intention of obtaining better the quality of our products, service and advice during this time. outcomes for Victoria and helping to create a great future Richard Aldous, Executive Director, Minerals and Petroleum Division for the resources sector. The objective is to capture and integrate our business processes The Gypsy Caravan around key functions and to build our capability in policy, Moves On business development and technology. The key changes are: Minerals and Petroleum Division, (that part of the Department of Primary Industries which many of you still call 'The Mines 1.The geo-science and information functions of the Geological Department'), will this year be making another move. This time Survey of Victoria and Petroleum Development Branch it’s to Shell House, 1 Spring Street, a much nicer building than will merge. The role of this newly formed branch is to attract the one they have occupied for the last 5 years. Shell House explorers and exploration dollars to Victoria. is on the corner of Spring Street and Flinders Street. Final dates It will continue to provide regional, state-of-the-art, relevant, are still to be worked out for the move, but it is envisaged that high quality geoscience information essential for project the move will take place in mid 2004. generation and servicing the exploration sectors. It is still to be worked out where sales of maps and reports The new branch will be called GeoScience Victoria; will be, but we will keep you all informed through this journal. Kathy Hill will be the Director. Exploration Reports The brand name, "Geological Survey of Victoria" will be retained. Available on CD-Rom

2.The facilitation functions will join and become part of a new Those of you who have held Exploration Licences, will know branch called Business Development and Technology (BDT). that one of the requirements is to send to the Department This branch will not only continue to facilitate investor's exploration reports on the work done and the results of that development projects, but will be responsible for our work. The reason for this of course, is that when the licence emerging technology strategy, including facilitating 'dies', this information becomes publicly available for any future technology development and transfer in the resources sector. miners or explorers. The role of BDT is to reduce obstacles for investors and to The Department continues its policy of making these 'open encourage new technology and it's application to Victoria's file' reports available on CD-Rom. earth resources development. A Director of the Business Development and Technology Branch will be appointed The following are now available: following advertisement of this role. In the interim Roger Exploration Licence Nos. 1004 to 1194 - $10.00 Buckley will be acting Director. Exploration Licence Nos. 1199 to 1227 - $10.00 3.The Policy Branch will now be called Policy and Exploration Licence Nos. 1228 to 1237 - $10.00 Legislation. The position of Manager for this branch will Exploration Licence Nos. 1239 to 1254 - $10.00 also be advertised. Elda Poletti will be acting in this role. In Exploration Licence Nos. 1268 to 1801 - $10.00 addition, Gary Jungwirth will be moving to the Minister's Exploration Licence Nos. 1802 to 1988 - $10.00 office as the Department Liaison Officer. Exploration Licence Nos. 2002 to 2694 - $10.00 Exploration Licence Nos. 3000 to 4597 - $75.00 Finally, I would also like to advise that Phil Roberts, who was appointed Director Minerals and Petroleum Regulation pending These licences were from the 1980's and the 1990's. a review of the branch, formally took up his leadership role on They can be purchased at the Minerals and Petroleum Business the 23rd February. These changes will require the new branches Centre, 8th Floor, 240 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne, or by to work together to capture business process synergies, whilst phoning (03) 9412 5103 and paying by credit card over the maintaining a focus on key customer/client groups. phone, they will then be mailed to you. The next six months will be a time of change, with both a new These reports can also of course be accessed on microfiche in the structure and the relocation to 1 Spring Street in June/July. Minerals and Petroleum Library at the same address.

PAGE 6 THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 A Truce Between Parks Victoria and Prospectors

Taylor at German Gully, Fryerstown. We broke into three groups to move around with prospectors Alan Dean, Bruce Weymouth and John Campbell swinging their detectors to show how prospectors work and what ‘impact’ this has. Everyone—even the greener of those present—were interested in what was being uncovered. No nuggets but plenty of shotgun cartridges, bullets etc.

The field trip at Castlemaine—photo courtesy of Parks Victoria After lunch we had open discussion on prospecting which indicated that many of those present had their opinions changed On a sunny day in Castlemaine the PMAV made significant by what they had heard and seen. progress towards changing what has been a hostile attitude to prospecting by Parks Victoria. This augurs well for a good outcome from the management plan process. A joint meeting of the Advisory Groups preparing the management plans for the new Greater Bendigo National Park and the We have expressed our appreciation to Parks Victoria Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park was convened on 3rd for organising the day and have reassurances from Trevor February by Parks Victoria to inform members of the two groups Miles, Regional Manager—Central, that we will be involved about prospecting. These groups will make recommendations in drawing lines on the map as the process develops. on areas where prospecting will and won’t be permitted in these two One thing that we have learned from the day is the importance parks through the preparation of the management plans. of informing people about responsible prospecting—there There were also quite a number of Parks Victoria officers in attendance. are many pre- conceived ideas out Rita Bentley led a team of PMAV members who provided there that are a passionate, accurate description on what prospecting is, who does totally wrong. it and what it means. Kevin Hillier (no-one would have been more It is the role of each suitable) spoke on the benefits of prospecting to the bush and the and every one of individual, Coiltek’s John Gladdis spoke on the importance us to ensure people of prospecting to the regional economy and Eric Grummet spoke have an accurate on the activities and needs of prospecting clubs. understanding We then moved to a field excursion organised by Tony Mills, Jeff of what prospectors Getting ready to demonstrate the realities of Douglas, Geoff Strang (from Miners Den) and BUG’s Robin do! prospecting—photo courtesy of Robin Taylor Eureka 150 The Victorian Government has announced that Arts Victoria So far we are involved in organising a dinner for the evening of will be responsible for the co-ordination of the Eureka 150 3rd December. Another event we want to keep quiet for the time celebrations. Did I hear a collective groan from the membership? being for the morning of Saturday 4th (note this will require full It is a legitimate question to ask, what has Arts Victoria to do participation by the membership) and our Annual General with Eureka? This is as we predicted, unless the PMAV - and the Meeting for Saturday afternoon. We will keep members entire membership - involves itself in Eureka 150 it will become informed as plans progress. yet another wine, food and multi-cultural festival. We really hope to see all members and friends at Eureka, so mark Government’s plans have three platforms—multiculturalism, the dates on your calendar now. It is not a time to celebrate, we democracy and debate, sorry but isn’t something missing? are after all marking the anniversary of the deaths of heroes, it is Weren’t there miners involved? a time to get together to appreciate the precious legacy that those brave men and women won for us. It is also a time to consider The PMAV has plans too. We will highlight the fact that it was the responsibility that comes with that legacy. We are bound to miners who revolted against an unfair and unjust ensure that it is not lost and that it is available to future administration. It was miners who laid their lives on the line for generations to appreciate and enjoy. their rights, it was miners who gave Australia a true democracy and it is miners who will be at the forefront of Eureka 150—we Any queries or suggestions regarding Eureka 150 should be demand that recognition. directed to Clyde Leatham on 5971 2877.

THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 PAGE 7 The Perth Mint Eureka Stockade – 150th Anniversary Products

In 1854 miners in Ballarat rebelled against Australian Prospector companion series, his work by the imposition of costly licences and the introduced in 2001 to celebrate the signing each lack of political representation on the significance of prospecting and gold in individual goldfields. With tension rising daily, the Australia’s history. This year’s pure gold piece. miners constructed a defensive coin features the leader of the rebellion, The 2004 fortification where they hoisted their rebel Peter Lalor, against the Eureka flag, which release of this flag—a blue background featuring the is highlighted in colour. The design also superb stars of the Southern Cross, connected by depicts representations of the rebels, 2004 1oz nugget proof coin collectable a white cross—said to signify unity and government troops and police. series captures defiance. Authorities ended the revolt The Perth Mint has also released Australia’s a spectacular with heavy-handed tactics, in which 22 first legal tender coin to incorporate free- re-enactment miners were killed. Public indignation at moving objects to celebrate this of the digger’s the deaths and injuries inflicted by troops anniversary. The Eureka Stockade 150TH wrath in 1854 during the uprising contributed to the Anniversary Silver Locket Coin depicts a when a public introduction of social reforms. This stand scene from the 1854 uprising, with a small meeting ended has been interpreted by many as one of the Eureka flag highlighted in colour. The in the greatest victories for equity and fairness in centrepiece of this coin is what sets it apart. ransacking and Silver Locket Coin Australia’s history. This comprises a locket, or transparent burning of the To celebrate this historic milestone, The capsule, within which a selection of Eureka Hotel. This breathtaking framed Perth Mint has released several spectacular spectacular gold nuggets are encapsulated. collectable is titled Eureka Flames. limited edition commemorative products, As the main feature of this coin concept, For further information on any Perth Mint which will be featuring in this and other the locket is on display permanently from products, please contact Veronica Maguire, editions of the Echo this year. The 2004 within the coin’s superbly crafted timber General Manager—Marketing, Perth Mint 1oz Australian Nugget Proof Coin is the presentation case. on telephone (08) 9421 7252 or email fourth coin released as part of the five-year To compliment the design theme depicted [email protected] on each of the Australian Prospector 1oz gold coins and further celebrate the impact of gold in Australia, the Mint has also Miners Liability released Australia’s Golden Heritage Series of limited edition photographic framed prints. Ken Duncan superbly captures Australia’s gold country in five specially commissioned panoramic landscape photographs and personally authenticates The Law requires that under the Eureka Flames Mineral Resources Development Act all Miners/ Explorers have “Public Liability Insurance" before they can operate on their licence. Dates to Watch We have a policy to cover surface March 26th-28th Albury 4WD, Camping & Leisure Show mining, sampling, prospecting, open-cut mining March 28th Gold Prospects—Free Investment Seminar—Melbourne and exploration. All underground April 9th-12th Gemboree, Lardner Park, Warragul mining activities are excluded. April 10th-11th Gold Expo Maryborough Minimum cover is $5,000,000 April 9th-12th Golden Horseshoes Festival, Beechworth All your insurance needs can be arranged: April 18th-24th Gold Week • House/Contents • Motor Vehicle May Castlemaine Heritage Festival ‘Cobb & Co’ theme • Business Packages • Work Cover, December 3rd 150th Anniversary of the Eureka Uprising and many more December 4th PMAV Annual General Meeting in Ballarat Call us today to find out more about For a free listing of your event in this column contact Rita on 0408 328 640 reducing the risks associated with your mining activities or email [email protected] 03 9349 2733

PAGE 8 THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 Maryborough Gold Gem & Treasure Expo —Easter 2004 Yes, it’s on again this year! Bigger and Members of the PMAV Central Victorian better than ever with a far wider range of Branch will provide overnight security for exhibitors. As last years venue was too the outside vendors and man the door. For ❖ small we went looking for something this service, the PMAV will receive the bigger. The Nestle Fitness Centre on the door entry fees of gold coin donations. TARNAGULLA Majorca Road 1.1 kilometres from the Last year this amounted to almost $2500. Golden Triangle main street was just what we needed. We This year, due to far better promotion, the have the use of two full sized basketball take should be much higher. Caravan and Camping courts, which is about twice the area we Minelab have once again come to the Park had last year. This year the canteen will party with a GP3000 up for grabs. Add supply light meals, snacks and drinks. to this a heap of other prizes from ❖ This year’s outside exhibits will include Coiltek and other vendors and the total Poverty St. Tarnagulla VIC 3551 four wheel drives, off-road gear vendors, value of door prizes will be well in excess Fossickers, Prospectors & Clubs caravans and campers, Westprint maps of $7000. welcome. and some new types of gold pans. We I could tell you lots more about the event have even got into cooking gear and food Located in historic nugget country. —but why spoil some good surprises? Cabins and ensuites, On site vans or preparation, plus much more. BYO. Come along and enjoy two great days of Parking will not be a problem as there is a Permanent and casual sites available. fun and entertainment, meet lots of large car park as well as the streets and the prospecting mates and make a few new oval behind the building. Credit card facilities. Pets allowed. ones while helping to raise much needed Under new management. Just about every exhibitor who attended fighting funds for the PMAV. last year will be back again, as well as The Expo will take place on Saturday 10th Telephone quite a few new ones. and Sunday 11th April—see you there! Maurice & Joan Pride Cliff and Betty Berry will again provide Jim Foster,Coiltek the musical entertainment and Tom (03) 5438 7329 Stewart will provide the laughs while acting as MC. ❖ Bank with us and everybody benefits.

PMAV is an agent of Bendigo Bank. and make a contribution that counts. It means we get Bendigo Bank will pay a commission for every dollar involved in activities at a local level, therefore deposited. For PMAV to receive this benefit you must supporting many local organisations. quote our agency number 816 when opening an For more information please contact your local branch, account. phone 03 9898 9568 or visit www.bendigobank.com.au At Bendigo Bank we offer a complete range of banking products and services, one-to-one personal service and a commitment to actively participate in the communities we serve. Equally, we aim to build long-term relationships

Bendigo Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178

THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 PAGE 9 Prospecting BUG news Club Contacts

The AGM of the Bush Users Group saw receive one of the newly released ‘BUG Prospecting club meeting dates a fresh executive take over from those supporter’ car stickers. are available from the clubs directly. who had been the foundation team. Bob For those of you who don’t know what As follows: Richardson replaced Robin Taylor BUG is, we are an alliance as President, Peter Ellard replaced Geelong Prospecting Club of organisations with an interest the PMAV’s Rita Bentley as vice- Meet at Hamlyn Heights in public land access and management. president, Bruce McClure became Phone: 03 5241 8024. We exist to counter the excesses Secretary with Robin Taylor taking of the green movement. Victorian Fossickers Club over as Treasurer. Meet at Lilydale While the PMAV does a marvelous job Previous office bearers Tracee Spiby and Phone: 03 9736 3325. for prospectors regarding access, having Rita Bentley remain as committee a unified voice on this issue gives Victorian Metal Detector members. My sincere thanks to the the PMAV considerably more strength. & Prospecting Association original executive—they put in Meet at Dandenong, an immense amount of time, effort BUG Associate membership is another Phone: 03 9787 2610 and passion into establishing this option at $40—this includes an emailed Victorian Seekers Club important organisation. copy of the newsletter. Meet at Mulgrave The Bush Users Group is inviting people This is a small price to pay to oppose Phone: 03 9793 4943. to be part of the ‘BUG Supporter’ the green movement. Ivanhoe Fossickers Club initiative. What this means is that Bob Richardson, BUG President Meet at East Ivanhoe in return for a much needed donation To contact BUG phont 0408 721 567. Phone: 03 9841 8412 of $10 or more you not only get Editor’s note: the knowledge that you are supporting This BUG initiative has the full support Moorabbin Prospecting of the PMAV executive. our important work but you will also & Camping Club Meet at Moorabbin Phone: 03 9543 4024 Sunbury Metal Detecting Club KEN ROBERTS Gold Meet at Sunbury Detector Phone: 03 9308 3364. Finders Dunolly Peninsula Metal Detecting Hire & Prospecting Club Sales & Phone: 03 5982 2625. Service Central Coast Prospecting Club Phone: 02 4373 1900 Lapidary Club Tours & Tuition, Local Gold Nuggets (fossicking group) & Jewellery for sale Phone 02 6231 6967 Also maps, books, picks, pans Brisbane Metal Detecting Club and many other accessories. Phone: 07 3882 0342. Ask about the 10% discount for Hunter Valley Fossicking Club PMAV & Prospecting Club members Phone: 02 4956 8575 Please send additions or corrections to this list Area Map Ref F-5 to GPO Box 1706P, Melbourne Vic 3001 or email to: [email protected] Tel: 03 5468 1333 Fax: 03 5468 1130 90 Broadway Dunolly VIC 3472 www.finders.com.au [email protected]

PAGE 10 THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 mates were dead in the 1939 fires. Bill was then lunch. My first statement after lunch was: Obituaries recruited to find and commission a mine in the "Mr Warden, Mr Goudie is a miner who . He was provided with a Bill Morris gets his hands dirty and produces gold. The crude and inaccurate map showing a prospect fact that he produces only 1 oz per week is It is with regret that we advise that we lost near the Margaret River, a new International irrelevant; what is important is that he goes another pioneering prospector with the truck fitted out for an extended journey and out and works hard to produce gold." death of William (Bill) Morris last August. three companions and they set off to That statement swayed the Mining Those who knew Bill will understand how rediscover, prospect and set up a working mine Warden and he granted most of the difficult it is to find words to describe this built by recycling relics at Pine Creek. The application. remarkable man. In an age of mind- mine closed when Darwin was bombed and numbing social engineering, safety and with the low gold prices Bill returned to his In the years until failing health forced his security that have reduced our spirit of timber interests, for many years running retirement, Arthur worked regularly adventure to getting excited about the sawmills and carting logs until the advent of producing gold from that mine. He made cricket scores, it was a pleasure and a detectors in the late 1970's rekindled his a modest profit, too. The wowsers tried to privilege to know Bill Morris. interest in gold. At 70 + Bill went back into stop him, but he stayed put. This country gold and had a series of mining titles and needs more workers like Arthur Goudie. Bill was born in 1908 at North Blackwood and detecting adventures to rival Indiana Jones. In Well done, Arthur!! was brought up in the mining, timber and his later years and with mobility limitations Bill Written by Bill Kyte, who was a Foundation eucalyptus oil industries working mostly in the would be out every chance he had, prospecting Committee Member of the PMAV and a former ranges of Blackwood and Trentham. His real with other people, happy to watch events PMAV Treasurer. passion was gold as was that of his father and unfold and see the gold found. He would sit Phil Gibbs grandfather. At 14 years of age he was working somewhere convenient surveying the scene as Sadly we advise that long-term Central feeding the battery of the Tyrconnel Mine at people went about the prospects of the day. He Victorian small-scale miner and PMAV Barrys Reef. he went on to work underground would have his thermos of tea and his biscuits member, Phil Gibbs, was killed in a tragic in the Yankee Mine south of Trentham before whilst taking in the bush around him with a truck accident in January. being recruited to follow up a gold discovery in broad smile and the oft repeated comment Fiji during the depression. Bill, his father and 'This is good isn't it'. Phil was a determined miner and always Ted Drummond went to Fiji and found the Written by Steve Barnham made himself available to assist the PMAV source of the gold that went on to become the Arthur Goudie when required. He also spent some of his present Emperor Mines. Bill led one of the two time as a timber cutter – he was a true shifts that put in the first tunnel, crosscuts, Arthur was a foundation member of the traditional bushie. drives, rises and stopes. He returned to Fiji a PMAV and regularly attended meetings. He Not long before his death, Phil had talked couple of years after leaving the mine and spent liked to prospect in Central Victoria, so about retiring but added ‘but what else would weeks at a time in the jungle, working as a inevitably he came across the old mines I do?’ Such was his passion for his work. prospector for a company. Back home in the around Trentham such as the Struck Oil and late 1930's he worked with a contract crew Hit and Miss. He staked his claim with two Phil was well liked and respected by his building and erecting poppet heads in the friends, one of whom turned out to be a peers and will be sadly missed by all who Chewton area before working on sinking the "mining squatter". He appealed to the knew him. Post Office Hill Shaft. He worked for a time Mining Warden (the marvellous Don Our condolences to Phil’s wife, Margaret, back in timber in the bush north-east of Elliott), and I represented him as PMAV and family. Melbourne but left due to his concerns about Treasurer. The case was going bad for us, and Written by Tony Mills the fire danger. Shortly after, several of his Don Elliott indicated this as he adjourned for

40th National Gem prospecting equipment, rock crushing and You’ll be most welcome. sampling, gold panning, detector demos & Mineral Show The aim is to help bridge the gap between and whatever else we can lay our hands on. —The Gemboree the gem fraternity and the PMAV. There will be a vast display of everything See you there. Lardner Park, Warragul in the gem, mineral and fossil world and —Easter 2004 demonstrations, tailgaters and dealers from Friday April 9th Noon– 5pm, Saturday all over Australia and overseas. It is huge so & Sunday 10th & 11th 10 am - 5 pm. The Gippsland Branches of the PMAV be there! Monday 12th 10 am - 2 pm. Admission will have an exhibit at this year’s is Adults—$3 and children under 16—$1. Gemboree—seeing that it is to be held in If anyone would like to join us on our site our area. On display will be gold, PMAV and contribute to the display or the person Refreshments are available on site. promotional material and information, power call Rob on (03) 5627 8557. Rob Bormann

THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 PAGE 11 Gold Investment —Free Seminar

From the Australian Gold Council: Gold Prospects helps investors focus on gold boom

Small investors looking to enter the booming gold market advantage of this rare opportunity to hear from the leading will have the opportunity to hear from key industry players companies in the Australian gold industry. By attending at the inaugural series of Gold Prospects investment Gold Prospects, investors will also have the chance to win seminars, to be held from 26-28 March this year. $1,000 worth of shares in one of the companies presenting,” said Ms Gorrie. Senior managers from some of Australia’s leading gold producers, explorers and emerging gold investment Global Head of Mining and Metals at ABN AMRO, Terry companies will be coming to Brisbane, Sydney and Burgess, said: “The value of many gold shares has increased, Melbourne to explain why investing in the gold industry and if the positive outlook continues it is well worth makes good sense. investors considering gold shares for their portfolios. “We are delighted to be involved in these events where These FREE events are being organised by the Australian leading figures from the Australian gold industry will outline Gold Council and supported by leading investment bank, the prospects for their companies and their thoughts ABN AMRO, and Australia’s largest retail stockbroker and on where the industry is heading,” said Mr Burgess. investment adviser, ABN AMRO Morgans. Up to 19 companies will present on each of the Gold CEO of the Australian Gold Council, Tamara Gorrie, said Prospects days, which are being held at Brisbane City Hall that Gold Prospects was a great opportunity for investors to on 26th March, The National Maritime Museum in Sydney meet with leaders of the gold industry and assess the on 27th March and The Victorian Arts Centre in Melbourne potential of investing in gold shares. on 28th March. Each day runs from 10.00am to 4.30pm “With the price of gold rising to its highest levels since and entry is free. 1996, now is a good time to consider investing in the gold For more information and to register for the event visit industry via listed equities. “We encourage investors to take www.australiangoldinvestment.com or call 1800 009 757.

PAGE 12 THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 Expiring Licences —What the Department Still Won’t Tell You!

There has been no change in policy by the Department in Min 4279, 4281 & ML1865 11/4/04 Denehurst Ltd relation to its refusal to send out notices advising of approaching Min 5274 12/04/2004 Kenneth F Jager expiring of licences. Following is a list of licences due to expire over the next few months for which no renewal applications EL3161 28/04/2004 Kinglake Resources have been lodged. EL4639 28/04/2004 Sord Technologies Until the Department recommence sending out reminder letters Min 5351 29/04/2004 Ian M Parker to licensees regarding approaching expiry, we will continue to devote precious Echo space to bring this information to you. EL3424 05/05/2004 Flitegold Pty Ltd We understand that at least two mining operations were alerted WA506 9/5/04 Pioneer Construction Materials to the approaching expiry by a our list in the September Echo and thankfully their licences were rescued at the last minute. EL3916 & Min 4921 13/5/04 Mt Wills Gold Mines If you see a colleague listed please let them know. Min 5023 13/5/04 Talager Pty Ltd The list shows licence type and number, expiry date Min 4815 19/5/04 Robert Smart and licensee’s name. Min 4789 25/5/04 Kevin Keller Min 5366 29/5/04 Dunolly Gold Developments Min 5269, 5270 & 5271 1/6/04 Natural Gypsum Supplies Min 4810 8/6/04 Graham Nottle Disappointed with ML1915 13/6/04 E Clay Pty Ltd your results lately! EL4279 & 4423 21/6/04 Stawell Gold Mines/MPI Try Tesoro and discover what you have been Min 4200 & 4644 30/6/04 AGD Operations missing. For more information contact Min 4837 30/6/04 Highlake Resources NL David Bishop & Co Min 5335 3/7/04 Duval Dene P/L 54 Watson Street Wodonga 3690 EL 4571 24/7/04 Target Mineral Exploration P/L Phone (02) 6024 1743 EL 3242 31/7/04 Mt Alexander Goldfields NL COILTEK GOLD CENTRE WORKING HARDER TO HELP FIND MORE GOLD MORE OFTEN

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THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 PAGE 13 Membership Drive The Bush Telegraph Unity in Queensland

—Have we got you yet? The Bush Telegraph - 13 2874 - is an Extract from ‘Miners Right’ the Newsletter of the North Queensland Miners Association initiative of the State Government of We have seen an increase in numbers since Victoria to help protect our bushland and ‘At a meeting in Emerald on 18th the last Echo when we obviously made visitors to the bush. The service allows all November, we established a peak mining some people think a little deeper about Victorians to report suspicious or group called the Queensland Small Miners PMAV membership. destructive behaviour in the bush. Council. The existing associations will More food for thought—as we’ve told you continue to deal with local specific issues Many Victorians want to do their bit when before the PMAV committee donates and QSMC will deal with shared, they witness suspicious or destructive nearly all the time we spend on PMAV statewide issues.’ behaviour which puts land, property or work. Imagine the impact of this on our people at risk. These occurrences may not The PMAV wishes the new Council good ‘spare’ time. We sacrifice time with our be emergencies, but they are serious luck and would be happy to assist with families, take unpaid time off work, enough for people to want to tell someone matters of shared concern. neglect our housework/maintenance and who can act on the information. what social life? All of us lose prospecting Fly the Flag – PMAV time for the sake of the rights of Victoria’s Parks Victoria provides this reporting prospectors and miners. facility though its Call Centre and ensures Merchandise that all reports are followed up. Calls to the So for those of you we haven’t convinced With the Eureka 150 anniversary fast Bush Telegraph can be made for the price yet that PMAV membership is vital— approaching, now is the ideal time to of a local call. think again. Who do you think will look purchase PMAV merchandise and proudly after your interests if we don’t? Not the The Bush Telegraph enables all Victorians wear the Eureka flag on your chest or on your public servants, the government, the to become involved in protecting our bush head! We have good stocks of most items but greenies or the large companies. The and our regional communities. small delays may occur if stocks run low. PMAV alone is concerned with protecting For further information please contact the the interests of prospectors and small-scale Costs are as follows: navy blue windcheater Parks Victoria Information Centre on 13 miners. Without us you’re cactus! type tops - $30, polo shirts in either navy 1963 or visit www.parkweb.vic.gov.au or white - $20 and caps with suede peak $9 Prospecting in Active Logging Coupes (plus $2 postage) if required. A full range This is not a good idea! A report in the Fill In Your @^!>&#*!% of sizes from small to XXXL is available. Herald Sun indicated that a ‘prospector’ Detector Holes Hats are one size but adjustable. who had refused to leave a logging coupe Merchandise will be available for sale at the was charged with trespass and Okay, we’ve asked you nicely but there are Gold Expo and the Gemboree, also at subsequently found not guilty in the still a few of you who don’t do the right branches, Miners Den and Coiltek, for Magistrates Court because of a conflict in thing. YOU, yes YOU, are spoiling things further details visit www.pmav.asn.au legislation. However, it is obviously for everyone else. It is sheer laziness not to dangerous to be wandering anywhere that fill in holes—there are no excuses. Orders can be sent to GPO Box 1706P logging is happening. Melbourne 3001—goods cannot be Liberals Announce New despatched unless payment has been received. The PMAV has serious questions regarding Don’t forget to include the size required. the motives of the person involved as he Shadow Ministry has a history of green activism. He is the Insurance spokesman for both the Blackwood Forest During January the Victorian Liberal Party Protection Group and the Save Wombat announced a reshuffle of the Shadow While there are no solid developments on Forest Alliance which has stated it will portfolios. Members will be interested to this, we are continuing to try every ‘take direct action to oppose logging’. He is learn that Bill Forwood MLC for possible avenue to achieve a result that will not a member of the PMAV. Templestowe replaced Philip Davis as ensure small-scale underground mining Shadow Minister for Resources. Forwood remains possible. We have concerns that attempts to close was the Shadow Environment Minister the claimed loophole in the law to prevent during the box ironbark debacle. Meetings continue with those who can make members of the green movement a difference—as we have said before there has exploiting the Miners Right will have Also of interest is that Phil Honeywood to be an answer to this problem. Small negative impacts on the rights of MLA for Warrandyte has replaced Tony mining businesses should not be closed legitimate prospectors. Plowman as Shadow Minister for the down for the want of compulsory insurance Environment. The PMAV makes no for a risk that is virtually non-existent. We have had discussions with the comment on these changes, but wishes to Department and have been assured we will acknowledge the good work done by The wheels are turning slowly, be patient, be consulted if changes are proposed. We Philip Davis and Tony Plowman in the at least they are turning. will of course be vigilant on this matter. shadow roles over the last year. PAGE 14 THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 Box Ironbark Grievance Sometimes Nice Things Just remember you must mention our Process Just Happen agency number 816 for the PMAV to receive the commission. It should also be noted We understand that the promised process Out of the blue, the Association received a that non-members can invest under our for dealing with grievances arising from letter from National Party MP, Bill Sykes agency and we still receive the commission. decisions by land managers in the box congratulating Rita on her ‘efforts to The PMAV also receives an incentive ironbark region has been established. protect the interests of miners and payment when deposits under our agency Details are sketchy at the moment but we prospectors in the face of an avalanche of reach certain amounts. This is the easiest hope to provide details in the next issue. ill conceived, ideologically driven, but way to help the PMAV, it costs you practically inept legislative changes by this nothing and you make money too! Slogan/Logo current Government’. for Eureka150 It is nice to know that our efforts are Hard Times Coming appreciated. Thanks Bill. in the West? Thankyou to all members who provided suggestions in response to the request in the A Carpet of Orchids The latest newsletter of the Amalgamated last Echo for slogans and logo’s for Eureka Prospectors and Leaseholders Association 150. The committee is still to make a decision, While visiting Amherst in Central of Western Australia indicate that all is not which we will advise in the June issue. Victoria in early summer we decided well for our mates in the West. to show the kids the big quartz From proposed changes to their Miners outcrop known as the Big Reef. I had Help Required—Gold Right through to aboriginal heritage matters, been there before and it is worth a Expo, Maryborough APLA certainly has challenges ahead. visit - but what struck me this time Coiltek Gold Centre, the organisers of the was the abundance of orchids. They Anyone who prospects in Western Gold Gem & Treasure Expo, have offered were everywhere. Everywhere that is Australia really should support APLA. Like the PMAV an opportunity too good to miss. where a bulldozer had been filling in the PMAV, memberships are the basis old shafts. These ‘rare and delicate’ of their funding. Full APLA membership We require PMAV members and/or their flora obviously enjoyed being pushed is just $60 with discounts available spouses to offer support by making around by a multi-tonne earth for pensioners and families. themselves available at the Expo to man moving machine. the door to issue tickets and collect entry So before you head West for the winter Rita Bentley donations during the day. We also need why not join APLA? volunteers to act as night security patrol Invest with the Bendigo Inquiries to APLA Secretary, Lindsay for outdoor and indoor exhibits from 5pm Stockdale on (08) 90918878. to 8.30am on Friday (9th April) & Bank to Benefit both Saturday (10th April). Security patrols are Yourself and the PMAV Mining Warden’s Registrar for observation and report to the police only—definitely no intervention. Some members may not be aware just Chalks up 20 Years how easy it is to make a donation If we can get enough support we would The first point of contact for most when o the PMAV at no cost to themselves. envisage that it would only require a approaching the Mining Warden is the friendly In fact, you can even make money couple of hours per person during the day. face of the Warden’s Registrar, Ivan Austin. by doing so. As regards the night security patrol, we will Ivan has been with the Mining Warden’s organise an overnight camp at the venue. For some years now the PMAV has had an office for a staggering 20 years. He has excellent arrangement with the Bendigo In return for these very easy jobs the PMAV been there during the term of three Bank whereby when members deposit will receive the gold coin entry donations. Wardens—Don Elliott, Kevin Ryan and money into any Bendigo Bank account, the current Warden Noel Laidlaw. Please note that last year a local football and quote our agency number 816, the club carried out these duties and PMAV is paid a small commission. Last December at a special ceremony, collected nearly $2,500 from the entry Minister Theophanous made a Members receive good interest rates donations. With this year’s Expo being presentation to Ivan in recognition of his on their investments, which are highly considerably bigger and better than last time with the Warden’s office. competitive with other financial year, the financial benefit to the PMAV institutions. Rita Bentley and Rex Motton attended the will be considerable. occasion on behalf of the PMAV and were We also receive a commission for referring We will put together a roster for the event, pleased to offer our congratulations and mortgage loans, home equity lines of so please contact Tony Mills on (03) 5461 3217 thanks to Ivan for his contribution to the credit, personal loans or credit cards. to register your intention to help. wellbeing of the industry. Tony Mills

THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004 PAGE 15 S E W O U N T • H

A W I A NEW MINER’S DEN CATALOGUE R

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V For many years through the 80’s and 90’s, the Miners Den Catalogue was the reference for all those interested in detecting, panning or fossicking in general. The Miner’s Den catalogue is a comprehensive list of the huge range of products we stock. Everything is there from the best detectors to find gold, through to the display cases to show it off. Over 200 book titles, a wide range of maps, all the various tools you could possibly want, sluice boxes and gold pans are all here. The 2004 Miner’s Den Catalogue is now available! Visit our new website at: www.minersden.com.au Order your FREE copy, by writing, phoning or emailing:— Miners Den. 464 Whitehorse Road, Mitcham, Vic 3132 Ph: (03) 9873 1244 or 1800 335 075 Fax: (03) 9874 5891 Email: [email protected]

The PMAV is the only group protecting the interests of Victoria’s small-scale miners, prospectors and fossickers. Hobbyist or professional, we are protecting your Rights. If you are not a member, join today and become part of an organisation that wins. Write to PMAV, GPO Box 1706P, Melbourne Vic 3001, phone: 0408 176 496 or email [email protected]

Membership fees for 2003/04 are: Individual & or Family $ 42.00 Individual Pensioner & or Family $ 25.00 Corporate $120.00 To join the Association please complete the form below and forward it with your payment to; The Hon. Treasurer, PMAV Inc., GPO Box 1706P, MELBOURNE, VIC., 3001. New members joining after January 1st 2004 pay a pro-rata rates of either $21 individual & family or $12.50 pensioner & family. The pro rata membership covers these members until 01/07/04 when all membership fees will become due and payable. Membership Application First Name ...... Address ...... Surname ...... Town or City ...... Telephone No ...... Postcode ...... Nominated Family Members: ......

Enclosed please find Cheque/ Money Order for $______being membership fees for 2003/04. Enclosed please find Cheque/ Money Order for $______being donation for fighting fund.

Name & address of friend who may be interested in membership First Name ...... Address ...... Surname ...... Town or City ...... Telephone No ...... Postcode ......

Signed ...... Date: / /

PAGE 16 THE EUREKA ECHO—March 2004