A worker in his 50s has died after being struck by a truck at the United Wambo open-cut coal mine in the New South Wales Hunter Valley, Australia. Emergency services were called to the mine near Singleton shortly after 1 p.m. on Monday.
Glencore, the mine's operator, has suspended operations at the surface coal mine, which produces approximately 3.5 million tonnes of coal annually. "It is with deep sadness that we confirm a worker has passed away following a mobile equipment incident," said Glencore chief executive officer Peter Sharpe. "Our sincere condolences go out to the worker's family, friends and colleagues. This is tragic news for our entire workforce. Our immediate focus is on providing support to the worker's family and our employees."
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. The Minerals Council of Australia stated that safety remains the highest priority for the industry. "Any loss of life is a stark reminder of the critical importance of our ongoing efforts to ensure every worker returns home safely," said Minerals Council of Australia chief executive Tania Constable. "The MCA, alongside the entire Australian mining community, will continue to work hard to eliminate fatalities across the sector."
Local federal Member of Parliament Dan Repacholi extended his condolences, noting the impact on the close-knit mining communities. "Our mining communities are built on hard work, mateship and looking out for one another," he said. "When we lose one of our own, the impact is felt right across the Hunter. Every worker deserves to go home safely at the end of every shift. There is nothing more important than making sure our workers are protected."
The NSW Police will prepare a report for the coroner. Glencore has also suspended investigations at the surface coal mine.