Western Australian School of Mines

Collection 28

The Western Australian School of Mines was established to provide training in mining and related fields such as metallurgy, engineering, surveying.

The School opened in 1902 in Coolgardie while the main campus was built in Kalgoorlie, transferring there in 1903. The School was located near the Golden Mile in an actively worked mining area. It has provided skilled employees and other services to the mining sector since first established.

Staff and students from the School enlisted and served during World War 1 and World War 2.

In 1915, staff and students from the School were responsible for the construction of the first aeroplane built in Western Australia.  This wooden biplane was “The Kalgoorlie”.

In 1969, the School became part of the Western Australian Institute of Technology (WAIT).

This collection covers the history of the Western Australian School of Mines. It includes records about its establishment, operations, research, teaching and learning methods, achievements, events, graduates, lecturers, tutors, teachers, administration and support staff and covers the School’s industry, community and professional relationships.