About Us

The WASM Wallabies Mining Club is a student-run club based at Curtin University, representing the Western Australian School of Mines (WASM). We bring together students who are keen to get hands-on, challenge themselves, and connect with others who share a passion for mining, teamwork, and growth.

At the heart of what we do is the Mining Games, a series of physical and technical competitions that test real-world mining skills like surveying, jackleg drilling, gold panning, and more. We train together, compete together, and proudly represent Curtin and WASM at national and international levels. In addition to this, we focus on connecting students to industry and to a supportive and welcoming community!

More about the Mining Games

On the 2nd of May, 1972, an underground fire broke out in the Sunshine Mine, located in northern Idaho, USA. The mine, once a leading silver producer, also yielded copper and antimony before its closure in 2001. At the time of the fire, 173 miners were working underground. As carbon monoxide, heat, and smoke spread rapidly, an evacuation was called. Only 80 miners managed to escape; 91 died from carbon monoxide poisoning, while two survivors who found refuge underground were rescued six days later, on May 8th.

In 1978, the International Collegiate Mining Competition was established to honour those who perished in the Sunshine Mine disaster,and others who have lost their lives in mining incidents. The competition focuses on traditional mining techniques used at the time and includes seven events: Air Leg, Muck, Hand Steel, Swede Saw, Survey, Gold Pan, and Track Stand. Snapshots of the events can be seen on the following page.

A competition like no other, the Mining Games brings together universities from across the globe, including the USA, Brazil, UK, Canada, and Australia, to compete, build international connections, and celebrate the heritage of mining culture and techniques.

Industry Connection

While the Mining Games are a big part of what we do, the WASM Wallabies is just as much about helping students build real connections with the mining and resources industry. Uni isn’t just about getting your degree, it’s about figuring out what comes next, and we’re here to help with that.

Throughout the year, we host casual sundowners, industry nights, BBQs and other events where students can chat with people actually working in the field, including engineers, geos, grads, managers, and recruiters. These aren’t just formal events, they’re relaxed, friendly spaces where you can ask questions, hear real stories, and start building your own network.

We’ve got a strong alumni community too! Many past Wallabies are now out in the industry and often come back to support the club. Whether it’s offering advice or to help run training, they’re part of what makes this club special.

Join Today

We’re proud of our roots and even prouder of the community we’ve built. We value safety, inclusivity, and backing each other, whether you’re in your first year or about to graduate. You don’t need to study mining to join. If you’re keen to get involved, learn something new, and be part of a team that has your back, you’ll fit right in.