This pamphlet outlines the hazards of abandoned mine workings.
Abandoned mine workings are part of the heritage of Western Australia. Historically, mines were constructed and maintained to be safe only while they were in operation.
In the early days of mainly small-scale mining, the abandonment process was not always well performed — when the early mine operators departed in search of fresh deposits, they often left mine openings unco vered, allowed water to flood the workings and blocked ventilation shafts. Support structures, timbers and ore pillars may have been left to deteriorate or even removed.
Even where the abandonment was done properly, deterioration over many years has led to potential hazards being created as precautions put in place at the time gradually age and become less effective.
Abandoned mine workings are a serious hazard to any outdoor recreational activity, particularly if using bicycles, motorbikes or motor vehicles.