The School of Mines is established in Coolgardie.

On November 3. the Coolgardie School of Mines commenced classes in the Exhibition Building.

Relocates to Kalgoorlie; formally opens in early 1904.

On January 24, the Coolgardie School of Mines was officially opened in a formal ceremony. By the end of the year, due to insufficient student numbers and the increasing prominence of Kalgoorlie as the mining hub, the Coolgardie school was closed. Planning began to relocate operations to Kalgoorlie to better serve the mining sector.

Earliest references to WASM Students Association.

The Kalgoorlie Miner, on December 14, reported on the second annual dinner of the Graduates Association, confirming the presence of a structured alumni network and student community from early on. This marked the first printed reference to an active WASM Students Association.

Society of WA School of Mines Associates is active.

The Society of WA School of Mines Associates was officially established. In 1959, The Society of Associates ceased operations.

Clive Annear serves as President of Graduates Association.

During this period, Clive Annear played a key role in the leadership of the Graduates Association, helping maintain alumni engagement and addressing the shifting educational landscape.

Graduates Association disbanded amid uncertainty over the school's future.

As questions about the future of WASM began to surface, the Graduates Association was disbanded. The uncertainty regarding the institution’s direction left the alumni community without a formal voice, impacting efforts to secure the School's long-term viability.

Partridge Committee recommends relocating school to Perth.

The Partridge Committee, commissioned by the WA Government, released a report on post-secondary education. It recommended moving WASM to the WAIT campus at Bentley in Perth.

Graduates Association re-forms after decision to retain school in Kalgoorlie.

In a major win for supporters, the State Government announced that WASM would remain in Kalgoorlie. Dr Odwyn Jones, WASM Director at the time, rallied support to re-form the Graduates Association. A General Meeting of over 50 graduates was held in Kalgoorlie, leading to the establishment of an interim Association.

Interim council formed, chaired by Richard Tastula.

The re-formed Graduates Association took active steps in shaping WASM’s future. Led by Richard Tastula, the interim council initiated efforts to engage more alumni, establish a presence within the community, and advocate for policies beneficial to WASM’s continued growth and success.

Phil Lockyer and others work to keep WASM in Kalgoorlie.

During this period, alumni, including Phil Lockyer, focused on ensuring WASM’s stability in Kalgoorlie. Their efforts were directed towards boosting student recruitment and securing funding, both of which were essential for the School's continued presence in the mining town.

Odwyn Jones recognized as a “WASM Champion.”

David Spottiswood becomes WASM Director.

Under David Spottiswood’s leadership, WASM underwent several significant changes aimed at modernising the institution. These changes contributed to the growing reputation of the School, even as the broader educational landscape continued to evolve.

WASM merges with Kalgoorlie College.

WASM merged with Kalgoorlie College, bringing about a more structured approach to student life and facilities. This partnership led to the completion of the Guild Building, which offered dedicated student facilities, marking a new chapter in the institution’s development.

Graduates assume control of Alumni affairs.

In 1998, control over alumni affairs transitioned fully to the graduates themselves, signalling a growing sense of autonomy and self-determination for the alumni network.

Alumni take a more proactive role.

Hillary Smith appointed first Alumni COO.

Ann Myer succeeds Hillary Smith.

Inaugural Bentley campus long table luncheon held.

WASMA is Born: A New Era for the Graduates Association

The Graduates Association underwent a significant transformation in 2015, becoming WASMA (Western Australian School of Mines Alumni). This name change represented the modernisation of the organisation and its alignment with contemporary alumni relations strategies.

Strategic plan developed with Curtin and WASM to boost student appeal and global profile.

Curtin University moves several courses into WASM, raising its profile.

Liz Blaxell becomes WASMA's Executive Officer

Liz Blaxell stepped into the role of Executive Officer, setting the stage for continued growth and innovation.

Johanna Gastevich succeeds Liz Blaxell as WASMA's Executive Office.

In 2024, Johanna Gastevich succeeded Liz Blaxell, bringing fresh perspectives and a continued commitment to the organisation's success.

WASMA continues to deliver strong member offerings.