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Full Story Gina episode 6: Mythmaking
May 11, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Bernard Lagan, a Sydney journalist for The Times, and Peter Garrett, the iconic frontman of Midnight Oil and ex-parliament member, dive into the controversial legacy of Lang Hancock. They unravel the dark history of the Wittenoom asbestos mine and its devastating impact on the community. The conversation critiques the Hancock family's selective storytelling and explores the ongoing fight for justice by those affected. They also reflect on the cultural ties of Indigenous communities to the land and the troubling dynamics in the mining industry.
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Myth of the Discovery Flight
- The iconic discovery flight of Lang Hancock symbolizing Pilbara iron ore discovery is partly mythologized.
- Earlier knowledge of mineral wealth and inconsistent flight details cast doubt on the celebrated narrative.
Hancock's Blue Asbestos Start
- Lang Hancock started his mining career with blue asbestos at Wittenoom, establishing a mine before selling it to CSR.
- Wittenoom grew into a mining town exporting asbestos, which later became infamous for asbestos-related deaths.
Wittenoom's Tragic Legacy
- Wittenoom's asbestos mining led to one of Australia's worst industrial tragedies with thousands dying from mesothelioma.
- Despite early warnings, asbestos dangers were downplayed by Hancock and others, causing severe health impacts.
