Cobar residents awoke yesterday morning to the devastating news that two workers had been killed in an accident at Endeavor Mine.
According to the Police Media report, two people died following an underground explosion at Polymetals’ Endeavor Mine yesterday morning.
Emergency services were called to the mine at about 3.45am after being advised two people had been critically injured in a workplace incident.
Officers attached to Central North Police District attended and were told a man had been confirmed dead after the underground explosion.
Two women were brought to the surface; however, one has since died.
The second woman was airlifted to hospital suffering hearing damage and shock.
Emergency services remained at the scene.
Police will prepare a report for the Coroner and assist the Resources Regulator in its investigation.
Polymetals Resources Executive Chairman Dave Sproule said mining operations at Endeavor have been temporarily suspended following the incident.
Mr Sproule said their immediate focus was to provide support to family, friends and colleagues.
“Everyone at Polymetals is shocked and saddened by the tragic incident at Endeavor this morning,” Mr Sproule said yesterday.
“Our deepest thoughts and condolences go out to the employee’s families, friends and colleagues.
“We will continue to support all our people, family and friends as we navigate through this difficult time.”
Cobar Shire Mayor, Jarrod Marsden said the community of Cobar was in mourning following yesterday’s tragic news.
“The Council and staff, as members of the community, are all impacted in some way and, as Mayor, I express my condolences to the families and loved ones of those miners killed,” Cr Marsden said.
“Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and colleagues of those affected by this devastating event.
“Living and working in a small town means that news like this can have a deep and personal impact on many of us, both directly and indirectly.
“Please remember to take care of yourself and to check in on one another over the coming days and weeks” he said.
Expressions of sympathy for the affected families and the wider Cobar community have been received from NSW Premier Chris Minns, Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos, State Member for Barwon Roy Butler, the NSW Minerals Council and the Mining and Energy Union, along with former residents and mine workers around the country.
