Crook urges Federal support for beleaguered Mining Hall of Fame.
Author: Tony Crook
Published on: 15-February-2010
Nationals’ Candidate for O’Connor Tony Crook is lobbying for Federal government support for the beleaguered Mining Hall of Fame, describing it as a critical part of Australia’s history.
The future of the Mining Hall of Fame remains uncertain, but Mr Crook has promised that if elected he will urge the Federal Government to provide ongoing financial support to keep the Mining Hall of Fame afloat.
Mr Crook has applauded emergency efforts by the State Government to try and develop an interim ‘rescue package’ and said the Rudd government should also be digging in right now to support the tourist attraction.
“The Mining Hall of Fame is not just Western Australia’s Hall of Fame, it is a national icon,” Mr Crook said.
“The Federal Government should be providing ongoing support to keep it afloat.”
Mr Crook said whilst there had been Federal funding in the past to cover some debts, there had been no recurrent support.
“Considering that the contribution we’re asking for only equates to around 0.05 per cent of the royalties from mining, it should at least be given favourable consideration by the Federal Government,” he said.
“The Hall of Fame covers many areas of interest; including mining and exploration, arts, education and tourism.”
Mr Crook said with uranium mining as a future possibility in WA, the Hall of Fame is perfectly placed to become a key education facility on the topic, providing facts, rather than hysteria.
“All levels of government – Federal, State and local could look at partnerships with industry to find innovative ways to support the Hall of Fame,” he said.
“Getting behind the Hall of Fame with some community consultation and an expanded education role would ensure the history of mining, as well as its future, remains intact.
“We have to remember that Australia no longer rides on the sheep’s back, it rides on the back of dump trucks!”
