First deadly mine explosion in Australia since 2015 kills two

Two workers were killed and another injured in an explosion at the soon to reopen Endeavor silver, zinc and lead mine in New South Wales on Tuesday, marking Australia’s first fatal mine blast since 2015.

Emergency crews responded to the remote mining town of Cobar, about 700 km northwest of Sydney, after reports of a critical workplace incident. Police said a man in his 60s and a woman in her 20s died at the scene. Another woman in her 20s was airlifted to hospital with minor injuries and shock. Authorities have not released the victims’ names.

The mine, owned by Polymetals Resources (ASX: POL), has suspended operations while investigations continue. The company has also requested a two-day trading halt following the fatal incident.

Polymetals acquired the Endeavor mine in 2023, intending to restart production after the site was placed on care and maintenance in 2020. The mine has operated since the early 1980s.

According to Safe Work Australia, fatal mine explosions are rare. The last occurred in 2015 at a Queensland mine.