Coal miners across the Queensland industry are devastated by news a worker was killed in tragic circumstances at Moranbah North underground coal mine overnight, the miners’ union said today.
Mining and Energy Union Queensland President Stephen Smyth said news of the fatality sent shockwaves through the workforce and the tightknit mining community of Moranbah.
“I was devastated to receive news of this fatality overnight. It is absolutely heart-breaking to know that yet another coal miner has not made it home to his family at the end of his shift,” said Mr Smyth.
“On behalf of the whole union, we extend our sincere condolences to loved ones and workmates. Workers at Moranbah North are still recovering from the tragic death of Brad Hardwick just two years ago and they will have the full support of the union in dealing with this latest shocking tragedy.”
Mining and Energy Union safety inspectors are at the Moranbah North site and will conduct independent investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatality.
“We will make sure no stone is left unturned in understanding what has occurred and demand the necessary changes to ensure it doesn’t happen again.”
Coal mineworkers will gather at the Miners’ Memorial in Moranbah this evening at 6pm to pay their respects.
