Fatal Mining Accident at BMA’s Saraji Coal Mine in Central Queensland

Incident Overview

On Monday, 15 January 2024, Luke O’Brien, a 27-year-old worker, was fatally crushed in the fuel-bay area of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA)’s Saraji coal mine near Dysart in Central Queensland. He was caught between two vehicles during an interaction in the fuel bay and suffered fatal crush injuries despite rapid transport to hospital.

Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) was notified and has launched a full investigation with multiple inspectors and investigators examining the site. Queensland Police are also involved and preparing a report for the coroner.

• Fatalities:
  • On Monday, 15 January 2024, Luke O’Brien, a 27-year-old worker, was fatally crushed in the fuel-bay area of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA)’s Saraji coal mine near Dysart in Central Queensland
• Injuries:
  • None reported.

• Mitsubishi Alliance
• On Monday, 15 January 2024, Luke O’Brien, a 27-year-old worker, was fatally crushed in the fuel-bay area of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA)’s Saraji coal mine near Dysart in Central Queensland

Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) was notified and has launched a full investigation with multiple inspectors and investigators examining the site. Queensland Police are also involved and preparing a report for the coroner.

Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) is leading the investigation with multiple inspectors and investigators examining the site and circumstances. Queensland Police are conducting a parallel investigation and preparing a report for the coroner. The Mining and Energy Union is also conducting its own investigation into the incident.

In Summary

Resources Safety and Health Queensland is appealing for any workers, contractors or witnesses who were present in or near the fuel-bay area of Saraji mine on Monday, 15 January 2024 to come forward with information. Witnesses can contact RSHQ on 1300 362 128 or Queensland Police on 131 444.