Mine explosion results in two deaths in Australia
(MENAFN) Two people have died following an underground explosion at the Endeavour mine in New South Wales (NSW), marking the first fatal mine incident in Australia since 2015.
Emergency services were called to the mine in Cobar, roughly 700 km northwest of Sydney, early Tuesday after reports of critically injured workers. Police confirmed that a man in his 60s died at the scene. Two women in their 20s were brought to the surface; one later succumbed to her injuries, while the other was airlifted to a hospital for minor injuries and shock.
Polymetals Resources, which acquired the Endeavour mine in 2023, announced a temporary suspension of all operations. Executive Chairman Dave Sproule expressed the company’s sorrow, stating it was “shocked and saddened by the tragic incident” and extended “our deepest thoughts and condolences … to the employee's families, friends and colleagues.”
Fatal mine explosions are rare in Australia, with the previous death occurring in 2015 at a Queensland mine. Cobar Mayor Jarrod Marsden described the event as “absolutely tragic,” adding, “The most valuable thing to come out of a mine are the miners, and two families don't get to see their loved ones anymore.” He noted the tight-knit nature of Cobar’s mining community and the impact on local residents.
A report will be prepared for the coroner, and the state’s workplace safety authority will investigate the incident.
The Endeavour mine, operational from 1982 to 2020, was being restarted by the new owners for silver, zinc, and lead production. The site includes a 7 km decline and a 300 m shaft.
NSW Premier Chris Minns extended condolences to the victims’ families and colleagues, calling it “a heartbreaking day for the Cobar community” and noting it will resonate across the mining sector. While safety measures in mining have significantly improved, Minns said the deaths serve as “a sobering reminder of why we need to always remain vigilant to protect workers.”
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