Gold Rat Metal Detectors is located 6/50 Freda Street Upper Mount Gravatt. This is the only store to stock Metal Detectors. Gold Rat Engineering is located 4/16 Redcliffe Gardens Drive Clontarf This is where you will see the largest range of your highbankers, sluices and accessories

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The new/then repealed ‘Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act’ of Western Australia ..... & Prospecting

The new/then repealed ‘Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act’ of Western Australia ..... & Prospecting

UPDATE - August 2023

On 8 August 2023 the Premier of Western Australia announced that the recently enacted state laws of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act will be repealed, after only being in place for 5 weeks:

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-08/roger-cook-repeals-aboriginal-cultural-heritage-laws/102699678

 

 

RECENT BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

The new ‘Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act’ of Western Australia commenced on 1 July 2023. It will have some impact (i.e. it imposes responsibilities and obligations) on prospecting and mining activities in Western Australia, including upon prospectors/fossickers using metal detectors and hand tools to hunt for gold. 

Unfortunately, for many concerned, there has been scare-mongering, disrespect, misinterpretation, ignorance and indifference expressed publicly with respect to the new laws.

Here is a  LINK  to some official facts sheets and guidelines about these new laws:

https://www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/aboriginal-cultural-heritage-act-2021-fact-sheets-guidelines-and-exemptions

Prospecting using a metal detector and hand tools only – is considered to be a "TIER 1 Activity" under the subject legislation. Accordingly, a ‘Due Diligence Assessment’  “MUST be undertaken in accordance with the ACH Management Code”.

The ACH Management Code provides details on how to do a Due Diligence Assessment. Here is a  LINK  to the ACH Management Code:
https://www.wa.gov.au/system/files/2023-07/20230427-ach-management-code.pdf

A Due Diligence Assessment involves using the ‘Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Inquiry System’ (ACHIS) database to search the area you are interested in - to find out if there is any record of Aboriginal cultural heritage relating to that land area.

The ACHIS Database can be accessed via the link below:

https://www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/find-aboriginal-cultural-heritage-wa

 

When I recently used the ACHIS database (in late July 2023), unfortunately on several occasions I found that it was rather slow at “Loading” all the data prior to my search to “Zoom to an area” of a “Mining Tenement”.

 

‘YouTube’ contains some simple and informative videos (see the 2 links below) - presented by experienced & well-respected W.A. prospector Tony Pilkington (of ‘ Goldtalk Leonora ’) with respect to the new ACH laws, including how to undertake a Due Diligence Assessment, and also how to search the ‘Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Inquiry System’ (ACHIS) database:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BESsQ7xWoSM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbEPPdYEBqE 

Tony Pilkington has an absolute wealth of experience & knowledge on gold prospecting & mining in Western Australia (Tony's wife - Lisa - has also prospected in Alaska and New Zealand). Tony also runs prospecting training courses, and he has a gift of explaining such things to others simply, with respect, humour and patience.

 

APLA

Many prospectors & leaseholders are members of the Amalgamated Prospectors & Leaseholders Association of Western Australia. This Association has been around for over a century.

Two of the main reasons why I joined APLA were:
1.    Financial APLA Members are covered by a $20 Million Public Liability Insurance automatically when they are lawfully prospecting as an amateur.
2.    APLA fights for its members, including ALL Prospectors and ALL Leaseholders rights by representation to government departments and political bodies. APLA also makes detailed submissions/recommendations to government with respect to proposed and current laws.

Other member benefits include free access to the regular online magazine (which often contains very useful articles written by local prospectors), as well as invitations to Association events and training, and regular Branch meetings (including in Kalgoorlie). APLA members are also invited to bush camps and prospecting trips hosted by experienced and professional prospectors.

I met many APLA members (including prospectors each with many decades of local experience) during my several years of full-time gold hunting in W.A. - who were only too happy to provide advice and assistance to me as a new member. That advice & assistance saved me from so much potentially wasted time & money, that far exceeded the cost of my APLA membership. This was a great investment for me indeed.

Currently, annual APLA membership costs are $110 for a Full Member, $150 for a Family, and $110 for a Pensioner Couple.

Five years ago in 2018, APLA made a detailed (15 pages) submission to the W.A. Government with respect to the impact of the then-current 'Aboriginal Heritage Act' on prospectors and small-scale mining in Western Australia:

Submission-054-Amalgamated-Prospectors-and-Leaseholders-Association-of-Western-Australia

APLA members can also seek quality advice & assistance from the very experienced & knowledgeable officials/Executive Members of APLA (who are often out gold prospecting too ! )

I highly recommend being a member of APLA if you are considering prospecting in Western Australia.

 

 

Let's Talk Detector Frequencies and Coils

Let's Talk Detector Frequencies and Coils

Let's Talk Detector Frequencies & Coils

Generally, the lower the frequency used by the detector, the deeper it can penetrate the ground. At low frequencies however, sensitivity to small low conductive targets is reduced. The higher the frequency, the higher the sensitivity to small targets, but it will not penetrate as deeply.

For example, a Minelab GPX 6000 pulse-induction detector (which operates at a frequency of only about 1.2 kHz) and fitted with a 10x5” monoloop coil (the smallest coil currently available for the GPX 6000), will achieve significantly greater depth capabilities in terms of detecting deeper gold nuggets, particularly in highly mineralised ground, than compared to a Minelab Gold Monster 1000 detector with VLF technology (which operates at a frequency of 45 kHz) and fitted with a 10x6” Double-D coil.

Below are the nominated operating frequencies of a range of Minelab metal detectors:

GPZ 7000: “is configured to operate at a fundamental operating frequency of 3.675 kHz

GPX 6000: “Operating Frequency of 1.225 kHz

GPX 5000: "is configured to operate at a fundamental operating frequency of 5 kHz"

SDC 2300: "the transmit frequency is about 3 kHz"

Gold Monster 1000: "uses an intermediate 45 kHz frequency

CTX 3030: "Simultaneous multiple frequency transmission ranging from 1.5 to 100 kHz

MANTICORE: "Simultaneous multiple frequency transmission ranging from 5 to 40 kHz” (as well as the options of 5 selectable individual frequencies of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 40 kHz).   The Minelab Instruction Manual also includes the following information:   “MANTICORE does not have a 4 kHz single frequency setting. Instead, the All-Terrain High Conductors Search Mode provides a Multi IQ+ based mode that can achieve an operating frequency even lower than 4 kHz.

EQUINOX 900: "Simultaneous multiple frequency transmission ranging from 4 to 40 kHz” (as well as the options of 6 selectable individual frequencies of 4, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 40 kHz).

EQUINOX 700: "Simultaneous multiple frequency transmission ranging from 4 to 15 kHz” (as well as the options of 4 selectable individual frequencies of 4, 5, 10, and 15 kHz).

X-TERRA PRO: "Single frequency transmission ranging from 5 to 15 kHz” (options of 4 selectable individual frequencies of 5, 8, 10, and 15 kHz).

[By comparison - Minelab's series of 'Pro-Find' pinpointers (15, 35 & 40) all have an operating frequency of about 11.6 kHz]

 

Different Coil Configurations
Monoloop coils (often called “Mono” coils) are a popular type of coil for Minelab detectors operating with Pulse-Induction (P.I.) technology. These coils have a winding of wire around the circumference of the coil, which is used to both transmit and receive.

The theoretical detection signal pattern of the Monoloop coil is quasi-cone-shaped, requiring more overlapping. In extremely heavily mineralised grounds they can be more difficult to ground balance, however they tend to provide slightly better depth than the ‘Double-D’ (DD) type of coils.

Many Monoloop coils are elliptical-shaped, and hence have better pinpointing capabilities on small nuggets, than compared to an equivalent sized round coil.



Alternatively, “Double-D” coils (often designated “DD” coils) are a popular type of coil for Minelab detectors operating with Very Low Frequency (VLF) technology.

A Double-D coil has two overlapping wire windings in the shape of two D’s. The benefits of a Double-D coil are stability (especially in heavily mineralised ground), good depth, sensitivity and a thorough search pattern requiring less overlap.

When used on the Minelab GPX 4000/4500/4800/5000 series of detectors, Double-D coils (unlike Monoloop coils) are able to discriminate between ferrous and non-ferrous targets when the Iron Reject function is activated. 

Double-D coils are also more stable when used on wet salt beach sand, and also in electrically noisy environments.

Given the same diameter of coils, Double-D coils tend to be slightly heavier than an equivalent sized Monoloop coil.



Conventional configuration Monoloop (“Mono”) coils, and Double-D coils, would both not operate effectively with the ZVT technology used by the Minelab GPZ 7000 detector. Hence, Minelab invented the ‘Super-D’ configuration coils (sometimes referred to as a “DOD” configuration coil).

The Minelab Super-D coils consist of two symmetric D shaped receive windings (one on the left and one on the right), with a central, oval-shaped transmit winding. This Super-D coils winding geometry provides a double audio response for shallow targets, and a single audio response for deeper targets.

This configuration greatly decreases interference from magnetic soils, reducing ground noise.

 

 

The Range of Minelab Headphones

The Range of Minelab Headphones

 The Range of Minelab Headphones

Minelab manufacture an extensive range of about 20 different models of metal detectors, including a range of Very Low Frequency (VLF) technology detectors, and also a range of detectors featuring Pulse Induction (P.I.) technology. 

Nearly half of the range of Minelab metal detectors also include wireless Bluetooth headphones in the detector kit when purchased new.

Gold Rat’ stock a range of Minelab headphones:

Minelab Koss UR-30 (cable) headphones are compatible for the SD/GP/GPX series detectors, and also the SDC2300, GPZ 7000, CTX 3030, Safari, E-TRAC and X-TERRA series detectors.

 

ML 80 wireless headphones 

The Minelab ML 80 Low Latency (Bluetooth aptX) wireless headphones are compatible for use with EQUINOX 600, EQUINOX 800 and Vanquish 540 detectors. The ML80 headphones will not work with the Equinox 700 and 900.

 

ML 85 and ML 105 wireless headphones 

The Minelab ML 85 & ML105 Low Latency wireless headphones are both compatible for use with MANTICORE, EQUINOX 900, EQUINOX 700 and X-TERRA PRO detectors. The ML85 & ML105 headphones are not compatible with Minelab Equinox 600/800 detectors – that are compatible with the ML80 or ML100 Bluetooth headphones.

 

 

 

ML 100 headphones for the GPX 6000 detector (Bluetooth aptX Low-Latency).

The ML 100 headphones will operate for approximately 24 hours on a fully charged battery and take around 3.5 hours to charge.

The GPX 6000 can pair and connect with normal (A2DP) Bluetooth headphones and other aptX Low Latency Bluetooth headphones, including the Minelab ML 80 headphones. When connected to aptX Low Latency headphones, there will be a + symbol next to the Bluetooth icon on the detector LCD screen to indicate this.

 

 

Waterproof Headphones - compatible for use with MANTICORE, EQUINOX series and X-TERRA PRO detectors.

 

 

Minelab Pro-Sonic Universal Wireless Audio System Kit

The Pro-Sonic wireless audio system is compatible with many Minelab detectors including the SDC 2300, GPX series, Gold Monster 1000, GPZ 7000, and X-TERRA series.

 

 

 

Gold Rat’ also stock a range of other brands of headphones that are compatible with Minelab detectors:

MDX150 headphones:

The MDX150 wired (cable) headphones were designed for the Minelab GPX6000 metal detector (not waterproof). They are also compatible with the Minelab Equinox series (600/700/800/900) detectors, and also the new Minelab X-Terra Pro detector. These are an affordable, and comfortable set of reliable wired headphones, with crystal clear audio, and loud volume across the full range of tones. These headphones can not be used underwater.

 

 

SteelPhase Pro Series headphones (300 Ohm)

'Phase Technical' is an Australian business that is owned and operated by experienced detectorist and product tester, Nenad Lonic. Nenad Lonic is extremely knowledgeable about Minelab detectors. He is also a manufacturer of quality detector accessories under his own 'SteelPhase' brand name.

The 'SteelPhase' Pro Series headphones are built using high quality aviator muffs for excellent comfort and sound isolation. Highly sensitive 300 Ohm driver elements are used to deliver crisp signal responses. They have a nice bass response as well, for a punchy response on those deep signals.

Designed to be an ideal match to the SteelPhase sP01 'Audio Enhancement System', but will also work direct into detectors which have good volume output such as the GPZ7000, GPX4500/4800/5000, as well as VLF detectors.

The Pro Series features gel/foam filled ear pads and headband, a feature not previously available on prospecting headphones, which offers extreme comfort for extended periods of use.

Adaptor Leads are required for use with the SDC2300, and the GPX6000.

 

 

Gray Ghost Amphibian II Headphones

Gray Ghost Amphibian II Headphones are 100% waterproof and totally submersible to a maximum of 200 feet. They feature a convenient foldable design, and are made in the USA.

 

 

GPX 6000 Lithium Battery Use Tips

GPX 6000 Lithium Battery Use Tips

GPX 6000 Lithium Battery Use Tips

The rechargeable Minelab Lithium-ion battery for the GPX 6000 lasts for approximately eight (8) hours. It takes about 5 to 6 hours to re-charge from flat. It is rated at a nominal 7.2Volts, with a capacity of 5833mAh (5.83 Ah) / 42Wh. It weighs about 0.3kg. All new Minleab batteries have a 12-months Warranty in Australia.

‘Gold Rat Metal Detectors’ usually have several of the GPX 6000 batteries in stock, and they cost about $240. 

 

Here are some tips for general use, and also for pro-longing the lifetime, of a GPX 6000 battery:

1. Ideally, keep all loose/spare batteries individually isolated & protected within waterproof & dustproof, sealed plastic bags when not in use. This also prevents a potential short-circuit of the battery and possibly causing a fire. I also store my Lithium batteries within a bubble-wrap pouch – for padded protection against possible impact e.g. via dropping them etc. Broken or cracked battery cases can allow moisture and oxygen to enter the battery and oxidise the Lithium components, causing a heat reaction. This can lead to fires or explosions.

2. Keep the battery terminal contacts clean on both the detector, and also on the battery, otherwise a bad contact may cause the detector to cut off when it is turned on – since the detector control box is unable to receive a consistent & suitable electrical power input to function properly.

Minelab have issued a Product Notice guide - "showing how to effectively clean your detector terminals to prevent low battery run times and intermittent powering off when using your GPX 6000."

 

3. Always follow proper battery charging procedures, especially with Lithium-ion batteries i.e. if possible, fully charge the battery following each day of use, and also remove the battery from the charger as soon as practicable after it being fully charged (i.e. do not leave Lithium batteries charging & unattended on chargers for tens-of-hours or days after being fully charged). Don't charge Lithium batteries when they are hot.

4. I periodically use a digital multi-meter to check that my batteries are OK – that my GPX 6000 batteries each contain a maximum (fully-charged) voltage of between 8 and 8.2 Volts (a suitable maximum holding voltage – as recommended by Minelab Australia).

5. I have three Minelab Lithium-ion batteries for my GPX 6000 (for when I was gold prospecting in the bush for 7 to 10 days at a time on my regular trips) – which I individually numbered – and I regularly rotated battery usage so that they all were being used & charged equally – for equal longevity.

6. Most days when I am detecting - I change the battery at midday (after about 3 to 4hrs use) and then use another fully charged battery for my afternoon sessions of detecting.

7. Only use the Minelab-recommended/approved chargers for charging GPX 6000 batteries. Otherwise, you may be taking unnecessary risks that could endanger.

8. Don’t leave Lithium batteries within closed/hot vehicles e.g. upon the dashboard exposed to the sun etc.

9. Having a padded control box cover (like the Aussie-made 'Double-D' padded canvas covers) not only protects the detector control box and battery against inpact forces, but it also provides a thermal shield for the battery against direct sunlight and heat radiation.

 

Minelab provide the following recommendations in their GPX 6000 User Manual (Page 25) with respect to the batteries:

“The battery pack is not waterproof — Do not immerse the battery pack in any liquid or allow water ingress.

• Only charge rechargeable batteries and accessories according to the instructions provided.

• Avoid charging rechargeable batteries and accessories in extreme temperature conditions.

• Remove battery prior to air transportation”

Snake Season

Snake Season

 SNAKE   Season

Spring has sprung ….. and so have the “Joe Blakes” (SNAKES) !

Due to warmer and drier conditions forecast this year in Australia, it is anticipated that snakes may become more active.

Unfortunately, a  man  recently  died  in  Queensland  following  a  snake  bite  incident.

According to official statistics, Eastern Brown snakes are responsible for the majority of snake bite deaths in Australia. Up to 65 per cent of fatalities between 2000 and 2016 were attributed to an Eastern Brown snake, which is found across most of eastern Australia.

A total of  29 PEOPLE  DIED  from various snake bites between 2010 to 2019 in Australia.

About  THREE  THOUSAND (3,000) snake bites are reported each year in Australia.

Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) data revealed more than 800 people were bitten by snakes in Queensland each year from 2020 to 2022. In January 2023 alone, 97 people were bitten in Queensland.

Six out of 8 (three-quarters, i.e. 75%) of the fatal snake bites in Australia since January 2020 have occurred in Queensland.

A QAS spokesperson said  MOST  SNAKE  BITES  OCCUR  ON  THE  LOWER  LIMBS,  and many happen when people are trying to kill or move a snake.

Fangs
An adult Coastal Taipan snake has fangs up to about 0.5 inches (12mm = 1.2cm) long. In comparison, an adult Eastern Brown snake has significantly shorter fangs of only approximately 3mm long.

A recent ABC News report included the following information about the Taipan:

"The Taipan is listed as one of the world's most dangerous and venomous snakes. Its venom works fast, attacking the heart, the blood stream and the nervous system, causing paralysis and convulsions while the patient's skin turns black."

 

Gold Rat sell Aussie-made gaiters (in canvas, or leather), and also snake bite first aid kits.

 

My tips ..... when it comes to snakes (based on my experience in the bush throughout Australia over several decades):

1.  Always wear fully-enclosed shoes (preferably leather boots), thick socks, long trousers, and also high-quality gaiters - that cover the whole of the lower legs up to the knee. The other advantage of wearing gaiters (as I know from experience) - is that my high-quality gaiters also prevent the penetration of spinifex needles from harming me. 

2.  Never run through high grass.

3.  Never immediately reach down to the ground & move objects such as sheets of iron, logs, timber, boulders etc. - without firstly assuming a snake could be concealed under/behind such objects. Use a long-handled item such as a long stick or pole (or a long-handled shovel) to initially hit-impact such an object to reveal/or rule out the presence of a snake. Also wear thick leather gloves if possible.

4.  Always carry (including when walking) appropriate/quailty First-Aid equipment, and also know  how to apply First Aid properly , and also carry a recently-tested Personal Locator Beacon (or EPIRB)

 

A question to consider .......

Do Minelab pulse-induction metal detectors, when operating, repel snakes or not ?

I wonder !

Interestingly, I read that scientists from two Queensland universities recently found that some  Australian snakes such as  Taipans,  brown snakes  &  death adders  can hear, as well as sense vibrations.