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Under investigation NSW Mining and resources

Experts Predict Lengthy Investigation Into Cobar Mine Explosion That Killed Two Workers

about 3:45am Published Updated
Regulator in NSW

SafeWork NSW

Status

A regulator or police inquiry is under way.

Investigated by

NSW Police

Record summary

Date
Wednesday 29 October 2025
Time
About 3:45am
Location
Polymetals' Endeavor Mine
Employer or operator
Polymetals Pty Ltd
Type
Underground explosion
Deaths
2On Tuesday, 29 October 2025, an underground explosion at Polymetals' Endeavor Mine near Cobar in western New South Wales claimed two lives; Emergency services attended the site following the underground blast
Injured
One woman with hearing damage and shock
Mine type
underground
Mine status
Operations suspended pending investigation outcome

What happened

Incident Overview

On Tuesday, 29 October 2025, an underground explosion at Polymetals’ Endeavor Mine near Cobar in western New South Wales claimed two lives. A man in his 60s died at the scene, and a woman died later from injuries sustained in the blast. A second woman was brought to the surface with hearing damage and shock.

Emergency services were called at approximately 3:45 am. The NSW Resources Regulator and NSW Police have launched a multi-agency investigation, and the mine has suspended all operations pending the outcome.

  • Fatalities:
    • On Tuesday, 29 October 2025, an underground explosion at Polymetals’ Endeavor Mine near Cobar in western New South Wales claimed two lives
    • Emergency services attended the site following the underground blast
  • Injuries:
    • None reported.
  • On Tuesday, 29 October 2025, an underground explosion at Polymetals’ Endeavor Mine near Cobar in western New South Wales claimed two lives
  • Emergency services attended the site following the underground blast

The NSW Resources Regulator and NSW Police are conducting a multi-agency investigation into the cause of the explosion. The regulator has noted that determining the root cause may take considerable time, as underground mining incidents often involve complex circumstances requiring methodical review. The mine has suspended operations pending the investigation outcome, with findings to be referred to the NSW Coroner.

The NSW Resources Regulator is appealing for any workers, contractors, or persons with relevant information about the incident to come forward. Witnesses and co-workers are encouraged to contact the NSW Resources Regulator on 1300 814 609 or the NSW Police Coroner liaison. All information will be treated confidentially and will assist the investigation.

In Summary

The NSW Resources Regulator is appealing for any workers, contractors, or persons with relevant information about the incident to come forward. Witnesses and co-workers are encouraged to contact the NSW Resources Regulator on 1300 814 609 or the NSW Police Coroner liaison. All information will be treated confidentially and will assist the investigation.

Investigation stages

  1. Done

    Incident

  2. Current stage

    Authorities investigating

    Status: under investigation

  3. Pending

    Findings or prosecution

    Not yet announced.

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