On August 10, Glencore’s Hail Creek Open Cut mine was the epicentre of intense competition as teams from across Central Queensland came together for the Queensland Mines Rescue Surface Challenge. @ The Coalface were thrilled to have the opportunity to witness first-hand the extraordinary skills and teamwork of our region’s mine rescue teams.
Competing teams included Hail Creek, Collinsville, Peak Downs, Oaky Creek, and Dawson and each team brought their A-game to tackle a series of rigorous scenarios designed to test their readiness for real-world emergencies.
At the end of the competition, it was the Peak Downs team that emerged victorious, securing first place, sponsored by FRSA. Oaky Creek took second place, sponsored by MSA Safety, while Dawson claimed third.
In addition, individual accolades were awarded to Tim Davis from Peak Downs, who was recognised as Best Captain, and the Peak Downs team, who also took home the Best Medic award.
Tim Jackson, CEO of Queensland Mines Rescue, highlighted the significance of the event.
“The team members in this competition can demonstrate their capacity to respond to several different challenging scenarios that they may have to deal with on site. With their skills, experience and teamwork, they will, at the end of the competition, be a much better team.”
As an observer, I was particularly impressed by the integration of learning situations into the competition. This event wasn’t just about testing skills, it was about continuous improvement, ensuring that each team left stronger and more prepared than when they arrived. The challenges were demanding, but they served as invaluable learning experiences for everyone involved.
A special shout-out goes to the Moranbah North Underground Mine’s rescue team and all the other volunteers from various mine sites and related businesses who played crucial roles in the challenge. Their commitment and efforts were essential to the success of the event, making it a real and interactive experience for all involved.
The event would also not have been possible without the Queensland Mines Rescue Service (QMRS) staff and all the organisers who contributed to the success of the QLD Mines Rescue Open Cut Challenge. Their dedication and hard work ensured that the event was not only a competition but a valuable learning experience for all involved.
The QLD Mines Rescue Open Cut Challenge is more than just a competition, it’s a testament to the resilience, dedication, and skill of our mine rescue teams.
As the mining industry continues to evolve, the importance of these events in honing the capabilities of our teams cannot be overstated. With every challenge faced and lesson learned, these teams are not only safeguarding their colleagues but also ensuring the safety and sustainability of our mining operations across Central Queensland.
Image credit: Ivy and Oak Photography
