Perks for workers at the Granny Smith Gold Mine, Western Australia

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While researching the Granny Smith apple for my last discussion, I came across an entry for a ‘Granny Smith’ underground gold mining operation (GSM). Many mining operations in Western Australia are located miles from established towns. Like many such operations, workers are employed on rosters which might include 8 days on, 6 days off. These FIFO (fly in fly out) workers earn good money but also pay in other ways. Our friend’s husband works 3 weeks on, 1 week off. When her husband is away, she cares for their young son and a mother who is in the early stages of dementia. Camp life at the mine sites can be quite luxurious. Suites are fully contained and have Foxtel, Wi-Fi and phone coverage. Recreational facilities include a swimming pool, gym, multi-use sports courts, golf driving nets. A soundproof music room is available as well as a selection of music instruments. There is a tavern and a well-stocked convenience store. However, for many, none of these amenities are a substitute for their families. Photo of a similar open-cut gold mine in nearby Kalgoorlie. ‘Nearby’ to the GSM, not to us. Photo courtesty CSIRO.