Small Show MiningArticle | Updated 7 years ago Winding device used for hauling ore up a shaft, made from bush timber and iron. The workmen become rapidly covered thickly with dust, and the whole air is full of it, so that men must breathe it constantly. Report of Royal Commission on the Ventilation and Sanitation of Mines, 1905 Small show mining, especially in the early stages of life on the Goldfields, was common. Individuals or small groups would work their claim using basic machinery and materials. Miners were at great risk of contracting respiratory conditions as they were constantly exposed to thick dust. The miner has considerably less chance of surviving until the age of 60 years than has the average male over 15 years of age. Report of Royal Commissioner on Pulmonary Diseases amongst Miners, 1910 A windlass, or winding device, is used here for hauling ore up a shaft. It could be manufactured easily using bush timber for the barrel and frame, and a few basic blacksmithing skills for the iron handle. The ore was lifted to the surface in a bucket or kibble. Haulage was limited to comparatively shallow depths and light loads. Image copyright WA Museum The diseases of the respiratory system fall heavily on miners. Dr Ernest Black, Report to the Royal Commission on the Ventilation and Sanitation of Mines, 1905 ‹ Getting Gold without Water Company Mining ›