Queensland mine worker found dead after marathon 12-hour rescue effort
A mine worker has been found dead after a marathon 12-hour rescue mission.
A digger was on a shelf on a mine wall at the Middlemount Coal Mine in central Queensland early yesterday afternoon, when it collapsed.
The collapse engulfed the machine and trapped the operator inside.
A mine worker has been found dead at a Queensland mine. 9News
Paramedics called to the mine were unable to treat the man's injuries, with the site deemed to be "unstable" and "unsafe".
Fire crews worked into the night to free the worker, but were only able to remove him about 2.30am.
He was declared dead by paramedics.
Mine workers congregate at the Middlemount Town Hall after finding out their colleague was found dead. 9News
9News
Workers gathered at Middlemount Town Hall this morning to comfort each other in the aftermath.
In a statement Middlemount Coal CEO Gerrie Jordan said the company was "deeply saddened" by the news.
He said the welfare of the family of the deceased and the safety of workers was the company's highest priority.
Operations at the mine have ceased until further notice. 9News
CFMEU Queensland branch president Stephen Smyth said the union was "devastated" by the death, and said it should serve as a wake-up call for the industry to examine its safety culture and practices in Queensland.
The accident is now subject to a Queensland Mines Inspectorate investigation, with which Middlemount Coal has said it will fully cooperate.
Operations at the mine have been suspended until further notice.
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