GM³ was honoured to stand alongside the Illawarra community on Friday 31 July 2026, to commemorate the 124th anniversary of the 1902 Mount Kembla Mine Disaster, Australia’s worst industrial disaster.
Held upon the mountain at Windy Gully Cemetery, the annual ceremony brought together mine workers, local residents, descendants and parliamentary dignitaries to remember the 96 men and boys who lost their lives on 31 July 1902.
A moving candle-lighting ceremony saw 96 candles illuminated, each representing one of the lives lost in the tragedy. More than a century later, the disaster continues to hold a special place in the history of the Illawarra and Australia’s mining industry, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of safety and community.
During the ceremony, Dendrobium Mine General Manager Simon Thomas also proudly announced GM³’s commitment to partnering with the community to bring back the Mount Kembla Heritage Festival in 2027.
The much-loved festival will return on Saturday, 31 July 2027, coinciding with the 125th anniversary of the disaster. The event will provide an opportunity for the community to reflect and celebrate the rich history and culture of Mount Kembla.
“The Heritage Festival has always belonged to the people of Mount Kembla, and we look forward to working alongside the organising committee, local volunteers and the wider community to bring this much-loved event back” Mr Thomas said.
“Together, we will honour the past, celebrate our shared heritage and ensure the stories of this village continue to be told for generations to come.”
Community members interested in helping plan the 2027 Mount Kembla Heritage Festival are encouraged to join the Heritage Festival Event Committee by contacting info@gm3.au.
