Tragedy has struck Queensland's mining sector twice in a single day, with two workers losing their lives in separate incidents on Friday.
Fatal Rockfall at Mount Britton Goldfield
A 58-year-old man has died after being struck by a large boulder while working at a private mining lease near Mount Britton, approximately 50 kilometres from Nebo. The incident occurred at around 2.40pm on Friday.
Forensic Crash Unit investigator, Sergeant Michael Hollett, detailed the events. The man had reportedly exited his excavator to move closer to a rock face when a substantial rock suddenly became dislodged. "The large rock collapsed and crushed his leg," Sergeant Hollett said. "It caused enough injuries to his leg that it eventually claimed his life. Before anyone else could get there, he passed away."
The site, part of the historic Mount Britton Goldfield at Oaky Creek, has been known for gold deposits since 1881. Police are preparing a report for the coroner.
Second Tragedy Deep Underground
In a separate and equally devastating incident, a man trapped one kilometre below ground at the Curragh Complex near Blackwater has been found dead. The accident occurred when the roof of the mine collapsed abruptly on Friday.
The operator, Mammoth Underground Mine Management Pty Ltd, confirmed the worker's death. "This is heartbreaking news for our workmate's family and friends, and all of us at Mammoth Underground," the company stated. "We have spoken with his family to offer our sympathy and full support as they begin to come to terms with this tragic loss."
Investigations and Safety Scrutiny
The workplace safety watchdog, Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ), has assumed a primary role in investigating the Mount Britton incident. A spokesperson confirmed they were aware of "an incident resulting in the death of a worker on a small-scale mining lease in Central Queensland."
"RSHQ's investigation is in its early stages following release of the scene by Police this morning," the spokesperson added, noting it is understood the deceased was working alone at the time.
Mammoth Underground also emphasised its commitment to safety following the second tragedy, stating: "The safety and wellbeing of everyone at the mine is our most important priority and we will continue to support all Mammoth personnel who are affected by the incident."
The dual fatalities have cast a sombre shadow over Queensland's resources industry, prompting renewed focus on operational safety protocols in both large-scale and small-scale mining operations.
