Miners pay tribute to John Langford

The mining community is mourning the loss of Diggers & Dealers director John Langford, who died suddenly last week.

Mr Langford, 59, had been involved in the mining forum for more than 20 years having previously served as a partner for Deloitte.

Diggers & Dealers released a statement praising Mr Langford.

“The owners and staff of the Diggers & Dealers Mining Forum are sad to announce the passing of friend and director John Langford,” the statement said.

“John has been a long-time supporter of the mining industry and made significant contributions to its advancement on many fronts through his involvement with the event and his various roles held in the resources sector over his career.

“He was a character larger than life and will be fondly remembered by family, friends and colleagues for his dedication, loyalty and the humour he brought into the lives of the people he was close to.”

Mr Langford took over the resources forum after founder Geoffrey Stokes passed away in 1997.

“John guided the transition of Diggers & Dealers from the Stokes family to Myles Ertzen and Sharon Giorgetta in 2017 and we are saddened that he won’t be with us one more time in August to see the event held by its new owners,” the statement said.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to John’s family at this difficult time. He will be sorely missed.”

Mr Langford also worked as managing director of Perth-based Mundo Minerals, now Titan Minerals, for seven years.