Kambalda
Gold Prospecting Location around Kambalda
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Kambalda's story is unique among Western Australian mining towns, with two distinct chapters of prosperity. Gold was mined here from 1896 to 1906, establishing a settlement in 1897, but the gold gave out in the early 20th century and the town was abandoned.
The town was reborn in spectacular fashion in 1966 when WMC discovered massive nickel deposits underneath the old gold workings. Today, Kambalda is known for both its historical gold mines and its role as one of Australia's premier nickel producers, with the nearby St Ives gold mine continuing the golden legacy.
Gold mining at Kambalda began in 1896 when prospectors discovered payable gold deposits in the area. A settlement was established in 1897 as miners flocked to work the goldfield. The town grew steadily during the late 1890s and early 1900s.
By 1906, the gold had been largely exhausted at economic depths, and the town was abandoned as miners moved on to other fields. For sixty years, Kambalda remained a ghost town in the Western Australian outback.
On January 28, 1966, Western Mining Corporation made a discovery that would transform the region. Drilling underneath the old gold mine gossans, they discovered the first of many large nickel sulfide deposits. This sparked Australia's nickel boom and led to the rebirth of Kambalda.
The town was re-established to support the nickel industry, and mining operations continue today. Additionally, gold was rediscovered in the St Ives area about 20km southeast of Kambalda in 1987, and it has become one of Western Australia's leading gold producers with multiple open pit and underground operations.
Common Questions
When was gold first found in Kambalda? ▼
Gold was discovered in Kambalda in 1896, leading to the establishment of a settlement in 1897. The goldfield operated until around 1906 when the economically viable gold was exhausted and the town was abandoned.
Why is Kambalda famous for nickel? ▼
On January 28, 1966, Western Mining Corporation discovered massive nickel sulfide deposits while drilling under the old gold workings. This discovery sparked Australia's nickel boom and made Kambalda one of the country's most important nickel mining centers.
Is there still gold mining near Kambalda? ▼
Yes, the St Ives gold mine, located about 20km southeast of Kambalda, was discovered in 1987 and has become one of Western Australia's leading gold producers. The mine complex includes multiple open pit and underground operations that continue operating today.
Can amateur prospectors find gold around Kambalda? ▼
The Kambalda area offers good prospecting opportunities in areas not covered by mining leases. The region's gold-bearing geology and extensive historical workings mean nuggets can still be found with metal detectors, though prospectors must respect active mining operations and obtain proper permits.