When FIFO miners' support website Miners Corp. Essentials asked miners about their major issues of concern, the response from across Australia was overwhelming. "My feet!"

Three years of research and a lot of personal savings later, the Ultimate Work Sock was ready for trial. Samples were sent to 1000 miners in different roles and work environments across the country. And the success rate? 100 per cent!

"The feedback was unbelievable excitement – finally there was a sock that complemented the safety-work boot," says Miners Corp. Essentials managing director Lynn Bowman.

"It was our aim to create a sock which not only provided comfort, support and cushioning, but also covered crucial issues such as circulation, tiredness, moisture problems and hygiene and health issues. Plus, they actually stay up!"

The Ultimate Work Sock, sold through www.minerscorp.com.au "at close to cost and with no postage fees", is a great (and useful!) example of the Miners Corp. philosophy.

The WA-based website – aimed at representing and supporting FIFO workers in mining and resources – was created in 2005 by experienced miner Graham Bowman.

After 19 years in the industry, he'd started to realise that the same questions and issues were being raised by fellow miners, young and old.

"There was a definite brotherhood bond which would turn them all into a distinct family – unless you worked or lived within this, you could never truly understand it," says Lynn.

"They are all a tight-knit bunch, they trust each other and are reluctant to let in those who appear to have ulterior motives: they will always have each other’s back."

And so Miners Corp. Essentials was born in the form of a free online community hub for miners – to help, support and give back to others in the industry.

"Our most important goal is to bring the community together and survive within a safer, more productive natural environment," says Lynn.

"The FIFO lifestyle can be challenging, even for those most experienced and anyone can succumb to the pressures this lifestyle holds."

Attracting members from across Australia and around the world, Miners Corp Essentials is operated by volunteers including partners, family members and friends.

"We all have the same mindset, to help and give back to the very core of the industry."

For more info or to check out the Ultimate Work Sock, visit www.minerscorp.com.au