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About Red Dirt Drilling

Red Dirt Drilling is a Western Australian drilling contractor delivering safe, reliable, and low-impact drilling services to the mineral exploration industry. Originally established in 2020 as Prospect Drilling, the business has since evolved under new ownership and leadership and now operates as Red Dirt Drilling, continuing to build on its experience, capability, and reputation in the field.

Based in Hopeland, Western Australia, we combine well-maintained drilling equipment with experienced crews to support exploration programs across Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Our team has hands-on experience operating in remote and logistically challenging locations, where a practical and adaptable approach is essential to maintaining productivity and meeting project requirements.

We focus on delivering consistent sample quality and maintaining strong working relationships with our clients. Through clear communication and a well-coordinated approach on site, we ensure drilling programs run efficiently from mobilisation through to completion.

Safety underpins everything we do. Through ongoing training, compliance, and continuous improvement, we maintain high standards across all operations.

Meet the Team

Our team prides itself on clear communication, prompt response times, and a strong client-focused approach. From project planning through to mobilisation and drilling execution, Red Dirt Drilling delivers dependable results, professional service, and drilling solutions you can trust.

69cb608ea8965_Jack Vandenberg

Jack Vandenberg
 Managing Director

  • Originally from South Australia, Jack has been a key member of the team since 2021 and is now an equity partner. With over 15 years of industry experience, he brings strong expertise in Air Core (AC) and Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling across Australia, having worked in a range of geological settings and site conditions.
  • Jack leads crews on remote exploration projects across a variety of ore types, combining solid field knowledge with a practical, hands-on approach to deliver safe, efficient, and reliable results.
69cb609f2d91a_Matt Vandenberg

Matthew Vandenberg
 Senior Driller

  • Matt joined the team in 2022 and has developed strong hands-on experience across Air Core (AC) and Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling. He began his career as an offsider in 2017 alongside his brother Jack, progressing to a driller in 2020 through consistent on-site experience and skill development, and is now an equity partner in Red Dirt Drilling.
  • Matt is a reliable and practical operator who understands the day-to-day demands of drilling operations. His strong work ethic and ability to adapt in the field make him a valuable part of the team, contributing to safe and efficient project delivery across a range of conditions.
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Ashley Fairhurst
 Director

  • Ashley is a founding member of Prospect Drilling and now Red Dirt Drilling and plays a key role in overseeing operations and supporting the continued growth of the business. With experience across drilling operations and project coordination, he brings a practical, hands-on approach to managing day-to-day activities.
  • Based in the yard but with years of experience with the Kalgoorlie community, Ashley supports the crew by ensuring equipment, logistics, and operations run smoothly, providing consistent support behind the scenes to keep projects moving efficiently.
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