Local kids' drawings exhibit Clermont's mining history

A colourful exhibition featuring drawings of Clermont's mining history is on proud display at the town library thanks to local school children.

The exhibition, themed "Reflecting on our past: our mining history - copper, gold and coal" is the result of the much anticipated annual Blair Athol Mine calendar competition.

"Each year Blair Athol Mine invites school students to participate in the calendar competition by creating a drawing with a particular theme," Blair Athol Mine general manager operations Andrew Cole said.

"Next year marks Queensland's 150th anniversary, known as "Q150", so we wanted to create a theme that had historical significance for our town.

"Clermont's prosperity has been built on mining, with gold and copper found in the area in the mid to late 1800s. Two Rio Tinto coal mines - Blair Athol and Clermont- remain very much a part of our community today.

"I encourage community members and our employees, many of whom have children with drawings on display, to visit the Clermont Library/Tourist Information Centre to reflect on our mining heritage."

Students from a number of local schools, including St Josephs School, Clermont State School, Kilcummin State School and Mistake Creek State School entered the competition, with more than 300 entries received by the mine.

Winning entries will be published in a calendar, distributed to each participating school and Blair Athol Mine employees in December.

The calendar competition has been running for more than 10 years, with past themes including stranger danger, protecting animals, safety and the environment.

Clermont State School acting principal David Routh said the calendar competition got students thinking about the significance of the Q150 celebrations.

"Blair Athol Mine has been a very generous supporter of Clermont State School for many, many years," Mr Routh said.

"With Q150 next year and the long history of the mine and Clermont State School, established in 1867, the annual calendar has certainly been a wonderful exercise, helping to build momentum for next year's celebrations.

"The competition is eagerly awaited by staff and students each year and this year was no exception.

"I wish to thank Blair Athol Mine for its assistance and support in the past and look forward to working closely with the mine in the future."

Media release_Local kids' drawings exhibit Clermont's mining history [PDF: 17 KB]