Newmont Mining Corporation

Newmont's KCGM operation in Western Australia has a 24-hour public interaction line that is used for a range of issues including emergencies, complaints, inquiries and feedback. Only when the operation is aware there is an issue, can it work towards finding a solution. All issues raised with the mine are logged into the computer database.

From the site's view, it is particularly important avenue for capturing those issues that require follow up and action. The calls logged have identified issues that have needed further investigation. KCGM continues to be vigilant in this area and encourages feedback from residents. It regularly shares the common inquiries and complaints that it receives via the inquiry line with the city of Kalgoorlie-Boulder through its community newsletter.

Vibe Alive is a two-day youth festival for young Australians of all backgrounds that promotes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and encourages tolerance and teamwork among all individuals. Participants in the festival have the opportunity to meet inspiring role models, learn about healthy living and consider future career options.

KCGM officials presented at the Future Careers and Education Market component of the festival, which gave students an opportunity to be the driving force of their future through finding out about education, training and career options from representatives of education, training and industry.

More than 10,000 people enjoyed a local community fair that featured exhibits and fireworks sponsored by KCGM. The mine's interactive exhibit was named the fair's ‘best indoor exhibition'. Mine staff gave away free native plant seedlings for water-wise gardens, 3-D posters of the Super Pit and balloons and lollipops.

"The fair is a fantastic community event and we love being part of it," said KCGM External Affairs Manager Danielle Van Kampen. "It was great to stand back and see a bunch of kids having a good time, dressing up as miners, sifting for gold and diving into the enormous truck tire for lollipops."

Mount Gleddon, also known as Nanny Goat Hill, is a registered Aboriginal Heritage Site located near KCGM's mine site. The area had been impacted significantly by historic mining waste, household rubbish and unrestricted public vehicle access.

Through a joint effort involving Newmont Australia, the Department of Indigenous Affairs, the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Conservation Volunteers Australia and Kalgoorlie-Boulder Urban Landcare Group, this important but neglected resource was transformed. The partners collectively sought to preserve the area's cultural significance and prevent further environmental degradation. KCGM provided a significant portion of the funding.

One of the first issues resolved was backfilling the old mine shafts and other areas previously used for mining to make them safe for volunteers and visitors. KCGM supervised the work done by a local contractor. A local supplier and plant expert managed soil preparation, weed control, removal of rubbish and tree-planting activities.

Local scout troops and students from East Kalgoorlie Primary School were instrumental in helping plant trees to minimize further environmental degradation of the area. New fencing prevents dumping of household rubbish and unauthorized vehicle traffic.

Due to our team effort, pedestrians are now able to enjoy a walking trail leading up the hill and are rewarded by spectacular views of the city. Turning Mount Gleddon "green" enhances the area's safety, while protecting and respecting this valuable local Indigenous cultural resource.