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Introduction
Two mine workers have been killed and another injured following an underground explosion at the Endeavor Mine near Cobar, in far western New South Wales. The tragedy has prompted tributes from political leaders, unions, and industry groups, and reignited discussion around safety in the state’s mining sector.
Details of the Incident
Emergency services were called to the mine on Endeavor Mine Road, about 450 kilometres east of Broken Hill, around 3:45am on Tuesday.
Police confirmed a man died underground in the blast, while two women were brought to the surface — one of whom later succumbed to her injuries. The second woman was airlifted to hospital suffering from hearing damage and shock.
Authorities have sealed off the mine as emergency crews and investigators remain on-site.
Community and Political Reaction
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the deaths as “heartbreaking,” offering condolences to the families, colleagues, and the wider mining community.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the workers who have tragically died in Cobar today,” Minns said.
“Everyone who goes to work has the right to come home. These deaths are a sobering reminder of why we must remain vigilant to protect workers.”
Minns called workplace safety the state’s “number one priority” and urged a renewed focus on ensuring high-risk industries maintain rigorous safety compliance.
Union and Industry Response
The NSW Mineworkers Alliance said it was “in shock” over the incident.
Spokesperson Tony Callinan vowed that the union would “leave no stone unturned” in understanding what happened:
“This is a tragic reminder that underground mining is a dangerous job. We’ll work with regulators to ensure the causes are identified and that lessons are learned.”
The NSW Minerals Council also issued a statement through chief executive Stephen Galilee, offering condolences:
“The thoughts of tens of thousands of miners across NSW will today be with the families and colleagues of the deceased and injured, and with the residents of the mining community of Cobar at this extremely difficult time.”
Investigation Underway
Police confirmed they will prepare a report for the NSW Coroner and assist SafeWork NSW in the investigation.
The Endeavor Mine, which produces silver, zinc, and lead, was first opened in 1982 and operated until 2020. It was recently acquired by Polymetals, which began preparations to restart production earlier this year.
Polymetals has paused trading on the ASX pending further announcements and is cooperating with authorities.
Broader Context
The mining community in Cobar has been hit by previous tragedies, and this latest explosion has once again raised concerns about safety protocols in ageing underground sites being recommissioned for production.
The fatalities follow several serious incidents in Australian mines over the past 18 months, underscoring the need for continuous vigilance and updated safety systems as the industry modernises operations.
Conclusion
As investigators work to determine the cause of the explosion, families, workers, and the Cobar community are mourning the loss of two lives. The incident stands as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those working deep underground — and the ongoing imperative to make Australia’s mining industry safer for all.