October 1, 2024
September is a sombre and thoughtful time for our Union, as the Northern Mining and NSW Energy District and the Queensland District both recognise the lives lost in our industry at their annual Memorial Day services.
Held on the first Sunday of September, the Northern District Memorial Day service recognises the almost 1,800 men, women and boys who have lost their lives in the Northern District Coalfields.
Northern District President Robin Williams and General Secretary Grahame Kelly addressed the service, alongside NSW Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos. Federal member for Hunter Dan Repacholi MP was also in attendance to pay his respects.
The annual Queensland District Memorial Service is held on 19 September, the anniversary of the state’s worst ever industrial disaster. The underground explosion at Mount Mulligan in 1921 claimed the lives of 75 mineworkers, a quarter of the town’s population. The disaster also precipitated the largest reforms to coal mine safety legislation in Queensland history, which still shapes the standards that we work under today.
Queensland Industry Safety and Health Representative Jason Hill addressed the memorial service on behalf of the Union, highlighting the lasting importance of safety and accountability in our industry.
