Coal miner dies after 'mobile equipment incident' in NSW Hunter Valley

A coal miner has tragically lost his life in a workplace incident at the United Wambo Open Cut mine, located 16 kilometres west of Singleton in the NSW Hunter Valley. The fatal event unfolded on a day when the NSW Minerals Council's Mining Health, Safety, Environment and Community conference commenced in the same region. Part owners of the mine, Glencore, confirmed the worker's demise following a "mobile equipment incident". The mine has since suspended operations while police investigations commence.

Glencore, in a statement, expressed deep sorrow, stating that the fatality was a "tragic news" and that their focus is on providing support to the worker's family and colleagues. CEO Peter Sharpe added that the company's immediate concern lies in comforting the deceased's family and fellow workers. The union, Mining and Energy Union's Northern Mining and NSW Energy District president Robin Williams, conveyed condolences to the deceased's loved ones, emphasizing that every worker has the right to return home safely after every shift.

He urged the union safety officer to allow authorities ample time to conduct a thorough investigation.

Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell described the incident as an "absolute tragedy", highlighting the tight-knit nature of the community. He stressed the importance of workplace safety in such potentially hazardous environments. The NSW Minerals Council's CEO Stephen Galilee echoed similar sentiments, viewing the incident as a "sombre reminder" of the critical importance of workplace safety. He also expressed solidarity with the deceased's family and colleagues across NSW.