Photography Duo Captures Fond Memories of Bygone Gold Prospectors

In 1989, photographers Roger Garwood and Trish Ainslie embarked on a journey to Western Australia’s Goldfields. Their goal was to document the lives of gold prospectors for a magazine feature. During this time, gold prices were relatively low, at around $US350 per ounce. This journey would lead them to experiences and stories that shaped their narrative about a changing era.

Capturing the Essence of Gold Prospectors

Searching the Goldfields proved challenging. Although many prospectors were present, those who had served in the military were scarce. On their last day, they found Hector Pelham in Broad Arrow, located 40 kilometers north of Kalgoorlie. A war veteran with a distinct look, Pelham had enlisted on the first day of World War II.

A Unique Encounter

After capturing Pelham’s photograph, Ainslie inquired about other war veterans among the prospectors. Pelham’s response, “Nah — dropping off like flies,” inspired the title of their eventual book.

The Birth of “Off Like Flies”

Following their trip, Ainslie’s engaging stories piqued the interest of friends and family, encouraging the creation of a book. Garwood noted that once word spread about their project, numerous prospectors came forward. Many maintained communications despite distances that separated them.

• Book Title: Off Like Flies
• Publication Date: November 1990

End of an Era

By 1989, many of the state batteries, essential for processing gold-bearing ore, had closed. This shutdown deeply affected the prospectors, with many believing it marked an end to their traditional lifestyle. Ainslie recounted how prospectors expressed a sense of finality about their way of life.

Reflections on Their Journey

Ainslie described the Goldfields as extraordinary, filled with remarkable landscapes and resilient individuals still panning for gold. She fondly remembered the peaceful sunsets and sunrises of the region.

Garwood, who had first visited the Goldfields in the 1970s, echoed similar sentiments. He found the vast, barren landscape astonishing, describing it as a live geography lesson. The connection he felt with the prospectors was profound.

The Bonds Among Prospectors

Garwood admired the tight-knit community among the prospectors, noting their solidarity. Whenever one faced financial hardships, others would contribute to help. He recalled meeting a character named “Kingy” in Meekatharra, who surprised him with a stash of gold nuggets hidden under his bed.

• Character: Kingy
• Location: Near Meekatharra
• Kingy’s Wealth: Half a million dollars in the bank

This encounter highlighted the unique lifestyle of the prospectors, characterized by camaraderie and resilience in the face of change.

Through their photographs and stories, Garwood and Ainslie immortalized a landscape and culture that was gradually vanishing, preserving the legacy of gold prospectors in Western Australia.