Coal miner dies after on-site truck crash in NSW Hunter Valley

A coal miner in his 50s died after being struck by a truck at the United Wambo Open Cut mine, located west of Singleton in NSW's Hunter Valley. Emergency services responded to the scene shortly after 1:00pm on Thursday, but the victim could not be saved. The identity of the deceased has not been officially confirmed.

The mine, a joint venture between Glencore and Peabody, has suspended operations while investigations are underway. United Wambo CEO Peter Sharpe expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss, offering condolences to the worker's family, friends, and colleagues. He emphasized that the company's priority is now providing support to those affected.

Glencore confirmed the presence of emergency services and police at the scene, and the mine's suspension of operations. Robin Williams, president of the Mining and Energy Union's Northern Mining and NSW Energy District, also extended condolences to the worker's loved ones. He stressed that every worker has the right to return home safely at the end of each shift, and any workplace fatality is unacceptable. A union safety officer is currently investigating the incident.

Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell called the incident a "tragedy" for the community, highlighting the close-knit nature of the area. He urged the community to respect the privacy of the victim's family while acknowledging the importance of workplace safety. NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee acknowledged the somber nature of the day, marking the conference kickoff in the Hunter Valley. He urged all miners across the state to remember the family and colleagues of the deceased.