Emergency crews are responding to a serious incident at a major Queensland coal mine, where a partial collapse has resulted in one worker being hospitalised and a second man currently unaccounted for.
Emergency Response at Curragh Mine
Queensland Police and other emergency services were called to the Curragh coal mine near Blackwater in central Queensland shortly after 3pm on January 2. The incident was reported as an industrial accident on Blackwater Cooroorah Road.
Authorities confirmed that one man was transported to hospital with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening. The search is now focused on locating a second worker who remains missing following the collapse.
History of Safety Incidents
This is not the first tragic incident at the Curragh mining operation. The site has a troubled safety history, including two previous fatalities in recent years.
In January 2020, a 33-year-old worker lost his life after being trapped under heavy machinery. This tragedy led to several charges under the Coal Mining Safety and Health Act, including the application of industrial manslaughter provisions which can hold employers or senior officers criminally responsible.
Tragedy struck again in November 2021 when another worker was fatally injured at the same mine.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
Queensland Police have stated they are assisting partner agencies with the investigation into the latest collapse. The focus remains on the search and rescue operation for the missing worker, while also securing the site to ensure no further danger to personnel.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the close-knit mining communities of central Queensland, where many families rely on the industry for their livelihood. It raises renewed questions about safety protocols and compliance in the state's vital resources sector.
Updates on the situation are expected as emergency services continue their work at the site.
