ABC Podcasts
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Craig survives the mine field
Craig survives the mine field
Craig survives the mine field
Tuesday 5th July 2022
Craig Quartermain shares his thrilling journey from mining to media, exploring danger, redemption, and personal growth.
30 minutes
Transformative
Inspiring
Authentic
Honest
Engaging
About this podcast
Author:
ABC Podcasts
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Success Stories
Relationships & Community
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Family Recovery from Addiction
Comedic Journeys
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Episodes:
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Get the buttons here!Craig Quartermain: From Mining to Media
Episode Overview
- Craig's journey from a carefree teen to a miner burdened with debt.
- The dangers and isolation faced in the mining industry.
- Strains on relationships due to remote work lifestyle.
- Craig's encounter with his indigenous ancestor prompting self-reflection.
- Transition from mining to broadcasting with support from his wife.
"Saying your life flashed before your eyes is really odd, but you do all of these calculations."
Ever wondered what it takes to transform a life after a fateful accident? Craig Quartermain's story is a rollercoaster ride through resilience, danger, and redemption. At 19, Craig's carefree life was abruptly halted by a car crash that left him burdened with debt. To pay it off, he ventured into the world of mining in Western Australia, where what started as a temporary gig turned into a decade-long career fraught with peril and exhaustion.
Craig shares his experiences of working in the mines, from the thrilling yet dangerous explosives crew to the monotonous grind of driving colossal dump trucks. He paints a vivid picture of life on site, where isolation and exhaustion are as commonplace as camaraderie and adventure. The mine becomes a microcosm of escape, where workers flee from their realities, finding solace in substances and alcohol.
Despite the challenges, Craig's time in the mines allows him to pay off his debt and build a life back home. Yet, the constant cycle of work hard, play hard takes its toll on relationships and mental health. A poignant encounter with his indigenous ancestor in the depths of night shifts prompts Craig to reassess his path. Deciding to leave behind the mining life, Craig embarks on a new journey into broadcasting and comedy, supported by his wife.
His tale is one of growth and transformation, reminding us that sometimes, it's not about the destination but the journey itself. So, what drives someone to seek a life beyond the mines? Dive into Craig's story to find out.