Members of Queensland’s resources community will remember the lives of the almost 1500 workers who have died in mining operations at the Miners’ Memorial Day in Moura today, said the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).
QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane, who is attending the annual event, said this year’s memorial will commemorate the anniversary of the Moura No.2 mining disaster (7th August) where eleven miners lost their lives 25 years ago.
“Moura has experienced three tragic mine disasters – Moura No.2 underground, Kianga and Moura No.4 underground – claiming a total of 36 lives. This community understands the hurt and pain suffered from a mine fatality and we will pause and remember those who have fallen and honour all the lives of miners who were taken too soon,” Mr Macfarlane said.
“It’s been a difficult year with the death of four mine workers and two quarry workers and we must work together to make mine sites fatality free.
“Industry along with the State Government and unions reacted immediately to these incidents and undertook a statewide safety reset. Mines Minister Dr Lynham has released official figures showing 96 percent of workers in Queensland’s resources and quarry sectors had completed safety resets.
“The top priority for Queensland’s resources sector is to make sure each and every one of the men and women working in mining return home safely.”
The Miners Memorial day service is held on the anniversary of Queensland’s worst mining disaster, when 75 miners were killed in a coal dust explosion at Mount Mulligan in far north Queensland on 19 September 1921. The memorial service commemorates the 1498 miners who have lost their lives in Queensland mine accidents and emphasises the importance of safety in the mining industry.
Mr Macfarlane said the industry must continue to carry the safety message in people’s mindset and daily work routines.
“Mining is part of our history, but it will also be an essential part of our future. By making sure safety remains the most important objective not only in every crib room, but also in every boardroom, we will ensure our extended mining family stays safe every day while we continue to build an even greater Queensland.”
The Department of Natural Resources Mines and Energy (DNRME) will be livestreaming the service on its Facebook page www.facebook.com/miningqld from 10:30am today at the Kianga Memorial Hall.
