Underground mining operations ceased at Stawell Gold Mines as Kirkland Lake Gold entered into care and maintenance mode at this time last year.
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About 150 employees were thrown into the unknown and suddenly faced the fast-approaching Christmas without an income. It was a dark day for Stawell.
But the future of Stawell Gold Mines is looking bright after Arete Capital Partners bought the site last week.
Former Stawell Gold Mines employee Matt Smith said he still remembered “that day” in December last year.
“I was brushing my teeth and was just about to leave when I received a text message,” he said.
“We met at Big Hill because the gates to the mine was locked and got a little information up there, but then we were told to head down to the gun club and that’s when we found out our jobs were gone.”
Mr Smith faced a second blow when he was told by doctors his 10-year-old son would need to remain in hospital over Christmas to undergo treatment for leukaemia.
“I needed employment and there was nothing in Stawell for the labourer type, so I went to Queensland to work,” he said.
“But then you’re about 3000 kilometres away from your family, so that adds more stresses – the situation was not ideal because we didn’t really know what was going to happen.”
But Mr Smith who has been employed locally for three months said Arete Capital Partners’ purchase of the mine was “awesome” news.
“Hopefully bringing back jobs can become an option further down the track,” he said.
Another former Stawell Gold Mines employee Karl Meyer said it was a “huge change” for himself and his family, but they had met the challenge during the last 12 months.
“I am working at Frewstal Abattoirs now and my wife has picked up work after 12 years looking after the kids,” he said.
“One income was enough to support us back then, but that has changed now.”
Mr Meyer was also hopeful the purchase of Stawell Gold Mines would bring back jobs.
“They will have to re-employ some, but it will take time,” he said.
Northern Grampians Shire Council mayor Cr Tony Driscoll said the new owner’s plan to return the mine to full production was just the latest sign Stawell's fortunes were on the rise.
"All the indicators are suggesting an extremely positive future for Stawell, and the recent sale of the Stawell Gold mine is another highlight in what has been a successful year for the town and the Northern Grampians Shire at large," he said.
"Along with the Bulgana Power Hub announcement, this illustrates major investors are prepared to buy into in the future of Stawell and the Northern Grampians.”