16/07/2025
VALE KEITH YATES
Paydirt is saddened by the recent passing of NewGenGold founder, friend and long-time colleague Keith Yates AM.
Following a career which included mapping remote parts of the Northern Territory, North Queensland and Papua New Guinea, Keith created NewGenGold in 1995. In his own words, he described the two-day technical conference as "a forum where practical discovery case histories could be presented and provide a motivational learning experience which could have immediate application for all concerned".
NewGenGold and Paydirt have been in partnership since 2003. A moment of reflection in honour of Keith will be held at this year's forum on 18-19 November.
Paydirt chair Bill Repard said: "Keith was well liked and respected by those who knew him and worked with him. He was passionate about exploration and the role that exploration companies play in the mining sector. Keith was also passionate about the importance of sharing stories of exploration success (and failure) and learning from the fantastic work of other committed professionals.
"We are very proud of what NewGenGold contributes to the education and professional development of geological professionals, young and less young, and look forward to continuing and building on the legacy that Keith started all those years ago."
Paydirt expresses its condolences to Keith’s wife Susie, son Ben and extended family.
