A Queensland mine’s rescue team has claimed victory at the 2024 Australian Underground Mines Rescue competition, held at Chain Valley Colliery on 24 October.
The Moranbah North Mine’s rescue team came out on top, beating seven other teams competing for the 2024 title.
The annual event brings together the top mines rescue teams to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to safety in the mining industry. Four teams from New South Wales, each having won their respective regional competitions, and four teams from Queensland (also decided by a series of competitions), competed for national recognition.
The teams at the 2024 competition were:
Representing New South Wales:
- Composite team (Hunter Valley)
- GM3 Appin (Southern)
- Centennial Springvale (Western)
- Composite team (Newcastle)
Representing Queensland:
- Thungela Ensham
- Anglo American Moranbah North
- BHP Boradmeadow
- Glencore Oaky North
The MG3 Appin team (Southern Mines Rescue, New South Wales) was runner-up, followed by Centennial Coal’s Springvale team (Western Mines Rescue, New South Wales) which took out third place.
Now in its 60th year, the competition features a series of challenging scenarios that replicate real-life emergencies faced in mining operations in both underground and surface environments.
Teams were assessed on their technical skills, teamwork and communications as they navigated simulated incidents such as hazard awareness, underground search and rescue, first aid and fire-fighting.
The competition not only highlights the critical skills required for emergency response but also fosters camaraderie and teamwork among participants from across the two states.
Queensland Mines Rescue Service General Manager – Operations, Ray Smith, said that the event was important for the Australian underground coal mining industry.
“The competition is not only a chance for teams to demonstrate and hone their skills but also serves to raise awareness about the importance of safety in mining operations,” Mr Smith said.
“It brings together the best mines rescue teams from Australian underground coal mines to compete and demonstrate their skills and knowledge. We celebrate the success of the best team on the day, but it’s the industry that gains the most from the experience and learnings gained by team members.”
NSW Mines Rescue General Manager, Alaster Wylie, congratulated all the teams for their efforts during the day.
“This year’s competition was nothing short of inspiring,” Mr Wylie said.
“The event is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our rescue teams. It showcases the extensive training and preparation that goes into ensuring the safety of all workers in the mining industry.
“We are proud to support these teams and their ongoing commitment to excellence in emergency response.”
Anglo American Australia CEO, Dan van der Westhuizen, said the Moranbah North Mine mines rescue team had proven time and again it was among the best in the country.
“But to win the Australian Underground Coal Mines Rescue competition on the back of a fierce international competition in Colombia last month shows the team’s training was exceptional,” Mr van der Westhuizen said.
“Mines rescue competitions are an essential opportunity for our industry to ensure we have the right skill sets ready to deploy and save lives across our industry, in the event this becomes necessary.
“Our highly skilled mines rescue teams are fundamental to our ongoing commitment to the emergency readiness of Queensland’s coal mining industry.
“I hope more people feel inspired to join their local rescue teams and gain vital skills. Preparedness is crucial, whether it’s in the workplace or in the wider community.”
The winning team will be invited to represent Australia at the International Mines Rescue Competition which will be held in Zambia in 2026.
