October 1, 2024
A worker was killed at the Yancoal’s Austar mine in the NSW Hunter Valley on 17 September, while working to seal a disused mine shaft. Craig Hugo, 59, was part of a work group whose task was to replace existing steel plates covering the shaft with purposely manufactured steel covers when he fell into the shaft, falling 400 metres resulting in fatal injuries.
Austar underground mine was placed into care and maintenance in 2020 while transitioning to closure.
Northern Mining and NSW Energy District President Robin Williams said the Union’s Industry Safety and Health Representative (Check Inspector) attended the scene of the tragedy and a thorough investigation is now being led by the NSW Resources Regulator.
“This fatality has sent shockwaves through the community. We extend our sincere condolences to Craig’s friends, families and workmates and thank the first responders and emergency services who attended the scene.”
The tragedy at Austar follows dual fatalities at Byerwen mine in Central Queensland in August. Chris Schloss was killed on 3 August while undertaking construction activities at Byerwen’s camp, while John Linwood was killed when the light vehicle he was operating collided with a haul truck on 22 August.
After a string of fatalities in Queensland, it was reassuring to receive the news last month that labour hire company Mastermyne will be prosecuted over the death of coal miner Graham Dawson at Crinum underground mine in 2021.
This will be the first industrial manslaughter prosecution in Queensland mining since laws were extended to the industry in 2020.
Queensland District President Mitch Hughes said news of the prosecution would bring some relief to Graham Dawson’s family and workmates.
“While nothing can make up for the tragic loss of Graham, it is a relief to know that those in charge of operations at Crinum will be held to account.
“In a period where we are seeing unacceptable rates of fatalities and serious injuries in the Queensland mining industry, workers and their families have been calling out for justice and for consequences when negligence kills or injures workers.
“We campaigned to see industrial manslaughter extended to cover the mining industry and we have also campaigned to see these laws used. Our industry needs accountability.”