Weerianna Gold Mine

Statement of Significance

The Weerianna Gold Mine centre has historical and social significance for its association with the early gold and copper mining industries of the Roebourne region. The site represents
the development of the region as a result of the mining industry and the continued richness of the region with regard to mineral resources. The preservation of shafts, infrastructure and evidence of occupation indicates potential for scientific research into gold mining.

Physical Description

This goldmining centre is located two miles west of Roebourne on the northern edge of Mount Welcome, within the West Pilbara Goldfield, which was proclaimed in 1895. Shafts and a 10-head battery were established on the site and several large surface outcrops were utilised during the exploitation of the goldfield.

Today the site is located off the highway, just outside of Roebourne. The site is easily accessed by a dirt track. The various spoil heaps indicating mined materials are present, as is an open shaft. The footings of the battery stamp are present, as are rubbish heaps from various phases of occupation by the miners.

History

Gold was first discovered in 1896, however little work was done initially due to the lack of available crushing facilities. Some rich parcels of stone were sent away for treatment to extract gold.

In 1907, the leases were taken up by Melbourne company, Roebourne Copper and Gold Mines of WA, NL, who also owned Carlow Castle at Glenroebourne. With mortgage assistance from the government, the company erected a 10-head battery with gas engine to process the ore on site. Despite a return of 273.5 ounces of fine gold from 713 tons of stone, the lease was unprofitable, and the leases and plant were surrendered to the government. In 1909, a working party obtained the lease of a portion of this area and the plan, which was worked under the title of Hillside Leases.

In addition to gold, the centre also produced copper ore, most successfully from the Lilly Blanche mine.

The Weerianna centre continued to produce ore up until at least 1938, although a Roebourne newspaper clipping suggests the ‘Weiriana Mine’ itself ceased operations some time before 1926.

Archaeology

There is some potential for archaeological remains within the Weerianna Gold Mine centre, to reveal further details of the mining activities. Archaeological remains comprise surface finds associated with mining and subsistence, and subsurface remains within the collapsed shaft.

Integrity/Authenticity

Elements such as the shafts and spoil heaps are largely intact, while partial footings of the mine’s battery remain.

Condition

Unknown

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.