ASBESTOS VICTIMS ADVOCACY GROUP CALLS FOR WITTENOOM MONUMENT

Asbestos mining operations in 1966. Credit: Lindsay Bridge, Creative Commons.

An advocacy group is calling for monuments to be erected to victims of asbestos-related diseases, following the demolition of the Pilbara town of Wittenoom earlier this month. 

Asbestos was mined at Wittenoom between 1943 and 1966, causing thousands of deaths through health complications. 

The Asbestos Diseases Society of Australia is calling for monuments to be built in Perth and the Pilbara region.

CEO Melita Markey said building a monument to the victims at a location en route to Wittenoom could serve as a warning and deterrent to tourists trying to enter the hazardous area. 

They’re not tempted because they (would) see this lasting memorial for over 4000 people, plus the spaces for the people still to succumb to the diseases from Wittenoom.”

Listen to the full interview with Ms Markey below.