Organizers of this year's Diggers & Dealers forum have hailed the event as one of the best in the forum's history. The forum wrapped up with a gala dinner with an awards ceremony that recognized the efforts of companies and individuals in developing the industry.

The Digger Of The Year Award went to new nickel miner Western Areas while former Jubilee chief Mr Kerry Harmanis was awarded Dealer of the Year.

The Best Emerging Company Award was given to Territory Resources and Australian Financial Review Journalist Michael Vaughan took out the media award.

Forum chairman Mr Barry Elderidge said that it has been a great 3 days. He added that "As usual a great three days, we have had some wonderful speakers here and it looks like shaping up to be as big or bigger next year. It has been a wonderful experience for a lot of people."