Operators of Western Australia's Thunderbird mineral sands mine have dismissed social media claims about serious safety incidents involving heavy machinery, stating that recent excavator mishaps have been exaggerated.
Social Media Sparks Safety Concerns
Images circulating on social media platforms show two separate incidents involving Re:Group excavators at the West Kimberley site. One photograph depicts an excavator lying on its side, while another shows a different machine with significant damage to its side panel.
WorkSafe confirmed it is investigating both incidents, with a spokesman acknowledging awareness of the "rollover" that occurred on October 25 and the separate dent incident.
Company Responses to Incidents
A Re:Group spokeswoman provided context for the tipped excavator, emphasising that no operator was inside the cabin when the machine was deliberately placed on its side. "The operator was able to turn off the excavator and disembark safely and unharmed," she stated.
The spokeswoman confirmed that WorkSafe was notified immediately and subsequently released the scene, adding that the equipment has since returned to operational status.
Kimberley Mineral Sands, which owns the Thunderbird operation, separately confirmed that no injuries resulted from either incident.
Contradicting Social Media Claims
Regarding the damaged excavator, social media speculation suggested a collision with a haul truck. However, The West Australian understands the dent actually resulted from the excavator striking a rock during normal operations.
Kimberley Mineral Sands operates as a joint venture between ASX-listed Sheffield Resources and China's Yansteel, with ownership split evenly between the two companies.
The Thunderbird project holds strategic importance due to its zirconium production, a chemical element with limited supplies in China that's essential for manufacturing nuclear and hypersonic missile technology.
Re:Group commenced operations at Thunderbird in April after securing a three-year mining services contract. Managing director Michael Still previously highlighted the company's Pilbara foundation while emphasising their commitment to maintaining local connections despite national expansion.
The contractor also operates other Western Australian mining sites including Element 25's Butcherbird mineral sands mine and SO4's Lakeway potash operation.
