Local Industry
Pastoral
A pastoral industry is based on livestock raising as the main economy which, within the Shire of Mount Magnet has for 150 years (since the 1870’s) predominantly been merino sheep bred for wool.
In more recent times, rangeland goats, meat sheep and cattle have been grazed. Wild dogs and drought continue to challenge pastoralists, who have adopted scientific methods for sustainable pastoralism and adapting to a changing climate.
For further historical information refer to “Drawn to Mt Magnet”, (available at Visitor Centre) in which the pastoral expansion into the Eastern Interior and subsequent development of the pastoral industry and associated stories can be found. More information can also be found by visiting the Mining and Pastoral Museum (entry through the Visitor Centre).
Pastoral activity and associated social culture, is an aspect of geotourism notable in the Murchison GeoRegion.
Mining
“One of the finest goldfields in the world” was predicted by Robert Austin, who in 1854, lead the first Colonial Expedition through what would become the Shire of Mount Magnet in the Murchison GeoRegion.
Gold was discovered here in 1891 (before Coolgardie, Cue and Kalgoorlie) and the first mine, Mt Magnet Gold Mine was operating by the end of that year. Gold mining has continued for 130 years, with Hill 50 GM its most famous mine. Open cut mining began in the early 1980’s, the mine pits and dumps (earth relocated from the pits) transforming the landscape.
For more insights. visit the Mining and Pastoral Museum (entry through the Visitor Centre) including the Hill 50 Winder and State Battery ten head stampers, both relocated by the Mount Magnet Historical Society. “Drawn to Mt Magnet” (available from the Visitor Centre) provides a wealth of historical information, data and stories.