j/v partner with a difference.

Heard this farmer on ABC talkback today. Was as low key as any announcement of this project. Certainly was no ramper.
James

Wheatbelt farmer turns to gold mining

Posted Thu Sep 23, 2010 3:07pm AEST

* Map: Dalwallinu 6609

A wheatbelt farmer is supplementing his grain growing with gold mining.

In 2005, Gary Butcher gave permission for exploration company Independence Group to carry out sampling on his Pithara property near Dalwallinu.

When the results confirmed gold mineralisation under the surface, the company offered Mr Butcher a joint venture arrangement to mine the ore.

The broad-acre farmer is continuing his grain growing but now also oversees a small open pit gold mining operation on his farm.

While Mr Butcher says the operation will not mean an early retirement, it is a healthy supplement to his farming.

"I know nothing about gold except what I've learnt in the last year or so. We wouldn't be doing it if there wasn't something left at the end," he said.

"I mean it's worth doing but I won't be retiring. I'll do what I've always said I'll do and that's keep farming until there's nothing left."