Goldfields salute to pioneering organisation

• Amalgamated Prospectors and Leaseholders Association marks 110 years

• Minister urges continuing safety focus

Prospectors have been reminded of the importance of carrying personal locator beacons in remote areas, as the Amalgamated Prospectors and Leaseholders Association (APLA) marks more than a century of service to the Western Australian mining industry.

Speaking at the annual Meet the Prospectors event in Kalgoorlie, Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion praised the association's contribution to WA and its support of safety programs.

"Without prospecting we cannot find the mines of tomorrow but prospector safety must always be the top priority," Mr Marmion said.

"More than 20 prospectors have been reported missing in WA since 2011, and two major searches took place earlier this year.

"The relatively low cost of a locator beacon is a small price to pay for something that could ultimately save your life and I urge you all to consider such a purchase."

The Minister also explained initiatives the Liberal National Government had undertaken in the past year to reduce red tape in the resources sector, particularly in the Goldfields.

"To assist prospectors and the resources industry we have been streamlining processes, with the Department of Mines and Petroleum working with APLA on online approvals," he said.

"The department has increased support to Kalgoorlie-based environment officers as well, ensuring a local presence and developing a greater understanding of local issues."

Mr Marmion also highlighted the Exploration Incentive Scheme which has offered 30 prospectors grants of up to $30,000 towards drilling and analysis of core samples since 2011.

Fact File

• APLA formed in Kalgoorlie-Boulder in 1904 with the aim of protecting and furthering the interests of prospectors

Minister's office - 6552 6800