A miner has died following the collapse of a gold mine in Mount Clear, Ballarat.
Emergency services were called to an operational mining site on Woolshed Gully Drive at approximately 4.50pm on Wednesday 13 March after reports of a rockfall.
Two people were pinned by fallen rocks while 28 workers were able to take refuge in a safety pod.
The incident occurred approximately 3km underground from the mine entry.
Paramedics worked with mine rescue staff to stabilise one person prior to extrication. A 21-year-old Ballarat man was treated for lower body injuries and airlifted to hospital in a serious condition.
The 28 miners that took refuge were safely brought to the surface and assessed by Ambulance Victoria.
The body of the second trapped man, a 37-year-old Bruthen man, was recovered on the morning of Thursday 14 March.
Australian Workers Union Victoria’s state secretary, Ronnie Hayden, said the union was called to attend the mine after the men had become trapped underground at about 5pm on Wednesday.
In a statement to Seven’s Sunrise, Mr Hayden said the union was later told one of the miners was killed, and the operation had shifted from a rescue to a recovery.
Mr Hayden said the two workers were undertaking a manual type of mining called air legging.
“They were, it appears, under unsupported ground and it has collapsed.”
Minerals Council of Australia’s CEO, Tania Constable, extended sympathies to the family, friends and workmates of the miner, as well as the Ballarat community who will be deeply affected by this tragedy.
“Our thoughts are also with the miner who is being treated for injuries.
“Safety is the most important issue for our industry. This tragic event is a reminder of the need to always prioritise safety above all else.”
WorkSafe will investigate the incident while police will prepare a report for the coroner.
