Warning: Abandoned mines are dangerous places. Do not enter abandoned mines.
The Donnybrook site is located within a small area of forest 2 km south of Donnybrook. The area was mined for gold between 1897 and 1903 and a significant number of historical mine workings present an ongoing safety risk. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions reported the mine workings to the Abandoned Mines Team raising concerns for community safety. Following assessment of the site in accordance with the program’s risk assessment and prioritisation process, Donnybrook was selected as a shaft remediation project site.
Status
A geotechnical assessment of 10 priority features was undertaken at the Donnybrook site in early 2021 to determine a remediation methodology. The assessment included down shaft camera and LiDAR surveys, base condition testing, gas monitoring and drilling to locate voids beneath the forest access track. Once the rehabilitation methodology was finalized in consultation with land managers and key stakeholders, the earthworks were completed. Post earthworks monitoring has now commenced.
For more information on how the Western Australian State Government is addressing the risks associated with abandoned mine features through management and rehabilitation view Abandoned Mines Program.
Contact
Abandoned Mines Team
Email: AbandonedMines@dmirs.wa.gov.au
Media enquiries
Email: media@dmirs.wa.gov.au
Phone: +61 8 9222 6102