Laverton
Gold Prospecting Location around Laverton
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Laverton's gold discovery in 1896 by Tom Potts, George McOrmish, and Harry Dennis initiated a rush to this remote region. By 1897, a residential and business area had sprung up on the west side of the Craiggiemore mine, one of the most successful mines in the district.
The town experienced a remarkable revival in the 1960s when prospector Ken Shirley discovered a massive nickel deposit, instigating the famous 'Poseidon Bubble.' Today, Laverton is known for the highly productive Granny Smith Gold Mine and serves as the gateway to some of Western Australia's most remote and prospective goldfields.
Gold was discovered in the Laverton area in 1896 by prospectors Tom Potts, George McOrmish, and Harry Dennis. Their find sparked a rush to this remote region, over 350 kilometers northeast of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. By 1897, a town had developed around the Craiggiemore mine.
The Craiggiemore mine proved to be one of the district's most successful operations, producing substantial quantities of gold during the gold rush era. The town was officially gazetted and developed the necessary infrastructure to support its isolated mining community.
By the late 1960s, Laverton was in decline due to low gold prices and diminishing returns from the old workings. However, in 1969, prospector Ken Shirley discovered a huge nickel deposit in the area, triggering the infamous 'Poseidon Bubble' - one of Australia's wildest mining booms and subsequent crashes.
Modern mining has revitalized Laverton, particularly with the development of the Granny Smith Gold Mine, which has become one of Western Australia's major gold producers. The mine and associated operations have restored prosperity to the town, which now serves as a vital service center for mining in the remote northern goldfields.
Common Questions
When was gold discovered in Laverton? ▼
Gold was discovered in Laverton in 1896 by Tom Potts, George McOrmish, and Harry Dennis. By 1897, a residential and business area had developed around the successful Craiggiemore mine, establishing Laverton as a permanent settlement.
What was the Poseidon Bubble? ▼
In 1969, prospector Ken Shirley discovered a massive nickel deposit near Laverton, triggering a wild speculative boom known as the 'Poseidon Bubble.' The Poseidon stock price skyrocketed before crashing, becoming one of Australia's most famous mining boom-and-bust cycles.
What is the Granny Smith Gold Mine? ▼
The Granny Smith Gold Mine is one of Western Australia's major gold producers, located near Laverton. The mine has been operating since the 1980s and has produced millions of ounces of gold, making it one of the state's most successful modern mining operations.
Is Laverton a good area for prospecting? ▼
Yes, Laverton is considered excellent for gold prospecting. The region is remote and less heavily worked than areas closer to Kalgoorlie. Many prospectors have found significant nuggets in the surrounding bush, though access requires preparation for remote outback conditions.