Anglo American mine rescue teams from the Grosvenor and Moranbah North mines in Queensland will compete at the International Mines Rescue Competition in Colombia from September 13–20.
The Grosvenor and Moranbah North teams won first and second place respectively at the 59th annual Australian Underground Coal Mines Rescue competition in October. This qualified the two Bowen Basin teams to compete at the international competition.
It will be the third consecutive time the Moranbah North mines rescue team has competed at an international level, having previously competed in Russia in 2018 and the US in 2022.
Grosvenor also debuted on the international stage in the US, so Colombia will be the team’s second tilt abroad.
Anglo American chief executive officer in Australia Dan van der Westhuizen said it was a great source of pride the mine rescue teams had gained global recognition for their expertise.
“Our skilled mines rescue teams are a critical part of our continued commitment to the emergency capabilities of the Queensland coal mining industry, and mines rescue competitions serve as a vital platform for our industry to highlight critical aspects of mine safety,” he said.
“We know firsthand why mines rescue skills are so important. And while no one wants to be in a position where a mines rescue team is required, their training, camaraderie, unwavering dedication and unparalleled experience provide us all with confidence when we need them most.”
Moranbah North Mine team captain Jason Seaborn said the camaraderie and competitiveness of mines rescue had driven his involvement.
“I’ve been part of the Moranbah North team for five years because I value safety and I value looking after my colleagues,” he said.
“Working as a team is the most rewarding part of going underground.
“It’s hard work but you have a really close work culture where you’ve got to have each other’s backs.”
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