WA govt issues reminder on locator beacons

New police statistics have shown that an unacceptable number of Western Australian prospectors are still not carrying personal locator beacons (PLBs).

Releasing the figures at the launch of the 2015 Seven Golden Rules safety campaign, Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion and Police Minister Liza Harvey said none of the prospectors targeted in the nine WA land searches since January 2014 had PLBs.

“It doesn’t matter how much gold you find; if you get lost, you risk losing your life,” Marmion said.

“If you’re not carrying a beacon, you’re not taking enough responsibility for your life. Undoubtedly, PLBs are the best way of avoiding the sometimes tragic results of getting lost in the goldfields and the outback.”

Harvey said searches were not only stressful for the family and friends of those lost, they also stretched precious police and emergency resources.

“Three years ago, a month-long search ended in tragedy and sparked the push for PLBs,” she said.

“In contrast, a recent search found the missing person just four hours after his device began sending out signals.”

The device, available from most outdoor stores, is ideal for use in remote areas as it does not rely on telecommunication networks to submit a signal.

“With more than 17,000 Miner’s Rights for prospecting issued over the past five years, I’m concerned there are far too many people going bush without the right gear,” Marmion said.

“Remember the Seven Golden Rules for prospecting, and make safety number one.”

The Seven Golden Rules for prospecting are:

1. Put safety first.
2. Obtain a Miner’s Right permit.
3. Obtain a 40E permit.
4. Get written permission.
5. Comply with all legal requirements.
6. Show respect when on Crown land.
7. Fill any holes.

The Seven Golden Rules campaign will see Department of Mines and Petroleum offices, tourist bureaus, libraries and caravan parks targeted with posters, brochures and booklets. Information is also available online.