Glencore has described a fatal accident at its Oaky Creek coal mine near Tieri as devastating for the entire workforce at that site.

One man died and a second worker was airlifted to hospital for treatment after the incident Wednesday afternoon.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to both workers’ families, friends and colleagues,” chief executive officer of Glencore’s coal business in Australia Ian Cribb said.

“This is devastating for our entire Oaky Creek workforce, and we are providing support services and counselling.”

The incident occurred when the two workers were carrying out maintenance works, Glencore said.

Operations have been suspended at the mine, located 90km north-west of Emerald.

Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart said he was deeply saddened to hear about the tragic death of a worker at the Oaky Creek coal mining complex as well as another person who was severely injured. 

“My heartfelt condolences are with the man’s family, friends, and colleagues,” he said.

“The independent health and safety regulator Resources Safety and Health Queensland will conduct a thorough investigation into this incident.

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this terrible event.”

Resources Safety and Health Queensland chief executive officer Rob Djukic said investigations into the incident had commenced.

“Our thoughts are with the colleagues, friends and families of both workers at this time,” he said.

“An RSHQ coal inspector has issued a directive to isolate the incident scene while we investigate.”

See below for an earlier report on the accident: