Australian mining services provider Perenti said that following a significant search and rescue operation, two missing workers were found dead after falling down a stope at MMG’s underground zinc mine in Queensland.

Photo: MMG

The incident occurred on 15 February at approximately 125 metres below the surface. Three employees of contractor Barminco, which is owned by Perenti, were in a drill rig and a light vehicle when they fell 15 metres into a void within a previously filled backfilled stope.

The drill rig operator was rescued and received medical treatment for minor injuries. Tragically, the two employees in the light vehicle were fatally injured.

“The safety of our employees is an absolute priority for Perenti, as it is for the industry more broadly. I am devastated that the families and friends of our two workmates have lost their loved ones. This outcome is simply not acceptable,” said Managing Director & CEO of Perenti Mark Norwell.

“In collaboration with MMG and the relevant authorities in Queensland, we will work to understand the circumstances behind this tragic incident and what additional measures need to be put in place to prevent this type of incident happening again.”

Barminco has been operating at MMG’s Dugald River mine since early 2012. The operation predominantly produces zinc concentrate, with by-products including lead and silver.

Source: Perenti