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Two workers missing after Queensland mine collapse

By AAP Newswire

Feb 15, 2023

File photo of underground miners. — Two contractors remain missing after a collapse at an underground zinc mine in northern Queensland. -AAP Image

Two mining contractors are missing after a collapse at an underground zinc mine in northern Queensland.

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Paramedics say they're assisting other emergency services after the "ground collapse" at the Dugald River Mine near Cloncurry just after 1pm on Wednesday.

The mine's operator MMG has suspended work while they search for two Barminco contractors who are "unaccounted for" after the incident.

"Two Barminco employees working at MMG's Dugald River mine in Queensland were this morning involved in an incident and currently remain unaccounted for," the ASX-listed company said in a statement on Wednesday afternoon.

"The site's emergency response has been activated and is working closely with Barminco and authorities to assist in search and rescue efforts. Operations at Dugald River have been halted while the search is underway.Â

"MMG has extended all available resources and support to Barminco and the Dugald River mine."

Local state MP Robbie Katter said the event was "obviously the worst nightmare" for a mining community and there was a lot of anxiety about the situation.

"We know emergency services are on the ground and we are praying for a good outcome," he said in a statement.

"My major concern is the wellbeing of these two employees and the task at hand to get them back safely to their families."