Tragedy Strikes: Two Miners Killed, One Seriously Injured in Devastating Underground Explosion at Endeavour Mine in Cobar, NSW
- Twin fatalities and one critical injury confirmed after blast at Endeavour Mine, about 450km east of Broken Hill
- Victim in his 60s pronounced dead at the scene, while two women in their 20s were rushed to the surface, with one succumbing to her injuries
- Surviving woman airlifted to Orange Health Service with shock and hearing loss, as police prepare report for the coroner
A dreadful underground explosion at the Endeavour Mine in Cobar, NSW, has claimed the lives of two miners and left another fighting for their life, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
Emergency services were scrambled to the scene at 3:45am after receiving reports of two critically injured people trapped underground. Upon arrival, officers were met with the devastating news that a man in his 60s had succumbed to his injuries, while two young women, both in their 20s, had been rushed to the surface.
One of the women tragically died shortly after being brought to the surface, while the other was airlifted to Orange Health Service with severe hearing damage and shock. Her condition is listed as serious but stable.
In a statement, Polymetals, the company that acquired Endeavour Mine in August 2024, expressed heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the victims, saying everyone was “shocked and saddened” by the incident.
“Our deepest thoughts and condolences go out to the employee’s families, friends and colleagues,” said executive chairman Dave Sproule. “We will continue to support all our people, family and friends as we navigate through this difficult time.”
Mining and Energy Union south western district president Bob Timbs described the incident as an “uncontrolled explosion,” saying it “just should not have happened” in this day and age. NSW Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos released a joint statement, calling it a “heartbreaking day” for the Cobar community and the entire mining industry.
The cause of the explosion remains unclear, but investigations are underway. The Endeavour Mine, which produces zinc, silver, and lead, has been suspended, and a trading halt notice has been issued to the ASX.