Details Regarding the Event
Authorities confirmed that an older male in his 60s passed away at the scene. Two women in their 20s were rescued and brought to the surface. Unfortunately, one of the women died from her injuries after arriving at the hospital, while the other woman was airlifted with minor injuries and shock to a different hospital. The explosion occurred nearly 700 kilometres northwest of Sydney at the site, which had only recently resumed mining operations for silver, zinc, and lead.
Following the report of the tragedy, Polymetals Resources, which bought the Endeavour mine in 2023, declared that all Burrow operations would be immediately suspended. Dave Sproule, the executive chairman of Polymetals, expressed deep sorrow, "the company was shocked and saddened by the tragic incident," and extended their condolences to both the families and the victims.
Community Response and Reporting
Cobar Mayor Jarrod Marsden described the incident as "absolutely tragic," and he indicated "the things that are most valuable coming out of a mine are the miners." He added that even though the Cobar area may be a small community, it would be "together in grief with the families of both victims."
Authorities confirmed a report will be prepared for the coroner, and that the state's workplace safety and inspection authority has also opened an investigation into the incident. "This is not just a heartbreaking day for the people of Cobar," and for the mining industry in general, added NSW Premier Chris Minns. He further added that while safety in mining has greatly improved, the industry is reminded of the need to ensure the protection of all workers.
The Endeavour mine records show operation consistently from 1982 to 2020, before it was sold for the resumed operations. A total depth of 7 kilometres declined, and a 300-meter shaft demonstrates the level of operations that happened at the site before the explosion.
