Queensland’s Governor has paid tribute to those killed in the mining industry, taking the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Moranbah Miners’ Memorial during a visit to the coalfields community.

Paul de Jersey was visiting Moranbah as part of the sixth Regional Government House program, which saw the Governor and Mrs Kaye de Jersey undertaking vice-regal duties from Gladstone from September 7-10.

During a busy afternoon in Moranbah, Mr de Jersey received a briefing at Isaac Regional Council, met students at Moranbah State School, laid a wreath at the Moranbah Miners’ Memorial and hosted a community afternoon tea.

Mayor Anne Baker said it was an honour to have the Governor visit the Isaac region again.

“The Governor visited Moranbah in August 2017 and has a genuine interest in our region,” Cr Baker said.

“His Excellency telephoned me at the time of the Grosvenor mine explosion in May to inquire about the five miners who were injured and about the welfare of families, friends and everyone in our close-knit communities.

“His concern and respect are also demonstrated by his request, when the visit was being planned, that there be an opportunity to lay a wreath to honour all those miners who have left for work from our communities and did not return home.

“Mining in Isaac helps power the world and build its infrastructure, creates enormous wealth, and plays a vital role in both the Queensland and Australian economies.

“However, sadly, there is sometimes a human price to pay. The miners’ memorial reminds us of those who have paid that price in mines round Moranbah, and on the roads to and from work, in work camps and from coal-related diseases.”

Cr Baker said Mr de Jersey was concerned about how the Isaac region was coping with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic setbacks.

“It is said that mining in general continues to do well across the country, providing exports to support the national economy in these difficult times, and the coal-mining enterprises in Isaac are certainly playing a vital role,” she said.

“However, I also know some smaller businesses and individuals in Isaac are facing dire circumstances and we will continue to support our communities.”

Cr Baker said guests at the afternoon tea hosted by Mr de Jersey included representatives from a wide range of Isaac organisations, including community groups, Moranbah schools, day care providers and kindergartens, Police, Fire and Ambulance, Moranbah Hospital and doctor’s surgeries, industry and unions.