AusIMM Kalgoorlie Branch embraces geotourism

AusIMM Kalgoorlie Branch Chair Allison Golsby believes that the best journeys are the ones that connect visitors deeply with the land, its stories, and its people.

Based in Kalgoorlie, ‘Good as Gold Tours’ offer immersive, small group, geotourism experiences that celebrate the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and rich mining history of the WA Goldfields.

Geotourism is more than sightseeing – it’s about experiencing landscapes through the lens of history, science, and culture. The Goldfields tours are designed for curious travellers who want to explore ancient landforms, salt lakes, ghost towns, and gold rush stories while gaining a true appreciation for the forces that shaped them. Experiences include the shimmering salt flats of Lake Ballard, past the haunting silhouettes of the Antony Gormley sculptures, or through the historic streets of Menzies, Goongarrie, Coolgardie and Kalgoorlie-Boulder. Every geotour offers a balance of storytelling, education, and discovery.

The geotour showcases the geological wonders of the Goldfields (pictured) alongside First Nations knowledge, pioneering tales, and the enduring legacy of mining communities.

As the ecotour leader, Allison brings a unique blend of expertise in mining, engineering, culture, nature, and heritage tourism. With a strong focus on safety, storytelling, and sustainability, Allison ensures every tour is respectful, enriching, and fun. Her passion for the land and its people shines through, creating meaningful connections for every guest.

The Tours proudly support sustainable tourism practices and collaborate with communities to promote regional resilience and appreciation of the Goldfields’ unique geology and culture.

AusIMM is one of the leading members of the Australian Geoscience Council (AGC), and as Kalgoorlie Branch Chair Allison sees enormous potential for each AusIMM branch in Australia and New Zealand to develop its own unique geotourism offerings tailored to the distinctive geology, heritage, and natural wonders of its region. This is more than tourism — it’s about celebrating local knowledge, creating meaningful visitor experiences, and enabling AusIMM members to share their passion and expertise in ways that uplift both communities and individuals.

Allison believes that AusIMM branches could support geotourism activities by

• showcasing their regional geological stories and mining heritage sites
• involving members in delivering guided experiences or talks
• supporting retired geoscientists and other mining professionals to stay engaged and contribute to geotourism development; and
• creating new economic pathways for small businesses, tour operators, and local partners.

Thus empowering the AGC through Geotourism Australia to raise the profile of geoscience in the broader Australian community.