Disaster was narrowly avoided this week as one of Tony Beets’ massive excavators nearly sank into treacherous ground at the Indian River site. With quick thinking and masterful teamwork, the seasoned crew used two additional excavators — the 750 and 480 — to pull the stricken 349 machine out of danger.
“It takes two seconds,” one crew member remarked as the machine began to sink into the muddy terrain. “There’s a lot of suction on it. That’ll be half the battle.”
In a coordinated effort, operators Tony and Mike used their buckets with precision, acting like mechanical hands to lift the bogged-down machine while Monica operated her boom arm to claw her way free. The tense operation was executed flawlessly, and the crew breathed a sigh of relief. “That went really well,” Tony said, proud of his team. “Not just any operator could pull that off.”
With disaster averted and no injuries or serious damage, the Beets family turned their attention to the real goal — gold. And this season’s final push did not disappoint.
BEETS FAMILY STRIKES GOLD — OVER $6 MILLION IN FINAL SEASON HAUL
With winter fast approaching, Tony Beets and his crew raced to process as much pay dirt as possible. Despite falling short of their ambitious 6,000-ounce target, the Beets family still managed a striking 3,540-ounce haul worth an estimated $6 million, marking one of their most successful seasons yet.
The numbers told the story:
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Dredge: 69.02 oz
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Shaker Deck: 85.76 oz
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Sir Sluice Plant: 173.96 oz
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Paradise Hill Trommel: 319.40 oz
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Total (Indian River + Paradise Hill): 648.14 oz this weigh-in
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Season Total: 3,540 oz
“It was an expensive season — very expensive,” Tony admitted. “But we’ll do better next year. That’s the takeaway.”
A NEW CHAPTER FOR KEVIN BEETS?
As the season wrapped up, family dynamics shifted. Tony’s son, Kevin Beets, after years of working under his father, is now eyeing a claim of his own. While plans are still in negotiation, he and partner Faith are considering breaking out on their own.
“The name’s not on the dotted line yet,” Kevin noted. “But I think I can do it after 20 years working for Tony.”
Despite the teasing and negotiations, Tony gave his blessing: “Don’t change your family. Figure out the royalties with your mother — I’m never the one to blame!”
Whether Kevin stays or goes, the Beets’ strong finish proves they’re still among the toughest players in the Yukon.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“There’s nothing like sucking your kids dry, right? It is your party.”
— Tony Beets, in classic Beets humor during lease talks with Kevin
