Two mining contractors are missing after a collapse at an underground zinc mine in northern Queensland.
Paramedics say they’re assisting other emergency services after the “ground collapse” at the Dugald River Mine near Cloncurry just after 1pm on Wednesday.
Inspectors from Resources Safety Queensland are also onsite assisting emergency responders.
The mine’s operator MMG has suspended work as the search continues for two Barminco contractors “unaccounted for” after the incident.
“Two Barminco employees working at MMG’s Dugald River mine in Queensland were this morning involved in an incident and currently remain unaccounted for,” the company said in a statement on Wednesday afternoon.
“The site’s emergency response has been activated and is working closely with Barminco and authorities to assist in search and rescue efforts. Operations at Dugald River have been halted while the search is under way.
“MMG has extended all available resources and support to Barminco and the Dugald River Mine.”
In a release to the ASX, Barminco owner Perenti said the situation was evolving and the team was supporting family members and colleagues.
Local state MP Robbie Katter said the event was “obviously the worst nightmare” for a mining community and there was a lot of anxiety about the situation.
“We know emergency services are on the ground and we are praying for a good outcome,” he said in a statement.
“My major concern is the wellbeing of these two employees and the task at hand to get them back safely to their families.”
© AAP 2023
