A gold prospector has died after he was hit by rocks while working on a family-owned mining lease, while another man has been found dead 1km down another Queensland mine.
A man died after a large boulder hit him at a Mount Britton property, about 50km from Nebo in Queensland, around 2.40pm on Friday.
The Forensic Crash Unit investigator said the 58-year-old man had been working at a private mine site when he was struck by the large rock during his work.
Forensic Crash Unit investigator Sergeant Michael Hollett said the man had been working at a private site when the large rock collapsed and crushed his leg.
‘The man had left his excavator to move closer to a rock face when the large rock suddenly became displaced and injured his leg’, Sergeant Hollett said.
‘There was a rock big enough that caused an injury to his left leg.
‘It’s caused enough injuries to his leg that it eventually claimed his life.
‘Before anyone else could get there, he passed away.’
Mount Britton Goldfield at Oaky Creek has been famous for its gold since 1881
A man stuck 1km below ground in a mine whose roof collapsed on Friday has been found dead
It is understood all men had attempted to return to the excavator when the larger rock rolled down the hill before it struck the machine.
Police will compile a report for the coroner.
Resources Safety and Health Queensland is understood to have taken a primary position in the investigation. The watchdog has confirmed it is aware of the incident.
‘(We are aware of) an incident resulting in the death of a worker on a small-scale mining lease in Central Queensland,’ a spokesperson said.
‘RSHQ’s investigation is in its early stages following release of the scene by Police this morning, however it is understood the deceased person was working alone at the time of the incident.’
Hours later, Mammoth Underground Mine Management Pty Ltd confirmed a man stuck 1km below ground in a mine whose roof collapsed abruptly on Friday, at the Curragh Complex near Blackwater, had been found dead.
‘This is heartbreaking news for our workmate’s family and friends, and all of us at Mammoth Underground,’ the company said in a statement.
‘We have spoken with his family to offer our sympathy and full support as they begin to come to terms with this tragic loss.
‘The safety and wellbeing of everyone at the mine is our most important priority and we will continue to support all Mammoth personnel who are affected by the incident.’