Underground workers dead after mine explosion

Two workers died after an explosion occurred at an underground mine in Cobar NSW this morning.

Emergency services were called to the site, located about 450km east of Broken Hill, at about 3.45am after reports two people had been critically injured in a workplace incident, the NSW Police confirmed in a statement.

According to the statement, officers attached to the Central North Police District were told on arrival a man was confirmed dead after the explosion and two women were brought to the surface. One of the survivors has since died and the second woman was airlifted to hospital and is being treated for hearing damage and shock.

NSW Premier Chris Minns comments on the incident.

“This is a heartbreaking day for the Cobar community and will be felt across the entire mining industry,” he said.

“We understand investigations are still under way.

“The number one priority in any mine must be safety. Everyone who goes to work has the right to come home.

“While safety protocols and procedures have greatly improved in mining, these deaths are a sobering reminder of why we need to always remain vigilant to protect workers.”

Police will prepare a report for the coroner and assist the NSW Resources Regulator in its investigation.