In the year 1959, the Aberdare No. 8 Colliery in Bundamba, Ipswich, was a bustling hub of activity, reflecting Queensland’s rich coal mining history. These remarkable photographs, contributed by John Walker and housed online at the Ipswich Library, capture the essence of a typical day at the colliery, showcasing the grit and determination of the workers who toiled in these demanding conditions.

Bundamba, located 5km east of Ipswich, has a deep-rooted history in coal mining, with the first discovery of coal south of Blackstone township occurring in 1866. This discovery came shortly after the opening of the Ipswich to Grandchester railway, which provided a ready market and transport for coal.

The steep terrain of the area allowed for tunnels to be driven into the hillsides, leading to the systematic mining of coal, led by Lewis Thomas, who would later become known as the “West Moreton coal king”. The development of a loop railway from Redbank to Bundamba in 1904 further accelerated the growth of coal mining in the region, with over three-quarters of Ipswich’s coal originating from Bundamba by 1900.

Aberdare No. 8 Colliery, like many other mines in the area, was integral to the local economy and community. The coal extracted from this mine was transported via the Bundamba loop railway to Ipswich’s wharf on the Bremer River, connecting it to broader markets.

The images presented here offer a glimpse into the daily operations at the colliery, including a historic photograph of coal transportation by rail at Bundamba, highlighting the skilled labor and infrastructure that supported Queensland’s thriving coal industry during this period.

One photograph depicts a worker carefully monitoring the conveyor belts laden with coal. These belts were equipped with steel chains manufactured by the Falkiner Machinery Co. Pty Ltd of Wellington Road, South Brisbane, which were integral to the colliery’s operations. The worker’s attention to detail highlights the precision required to keep the operation running smoothly, ensuring that the coal was efficiently transported for further processing.

In another image, a worker is seen managing the screening process, where coal is sorted by size. This labour intensive task was crucial in ensuring that the coal met the required standards before being shipped out. The concentration required (and is that a cigarette?) is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the men who spent their days in these challenging environments.

Another image offers a glimpse into the external workings of the colliery, with a miner pushing a coal-filled cart up an incline. The building in the background, originally the home of the George family, had been repurposed as the mine office after being acquired by the Walkers around 1950. This repurposing of local structures is a reminder of how closely intertwined the community was with the coal industry.

These photographs not only serve as a visual record of the day-to-day operations at Aberdare No. 8 Colliery but also as a tribute to the men who were the backbone of the coal industry. Their contributions laid the foundation for the development of the region and helped shape the history of Ipswich.

For those interested in exploring more about the history of Aberdare No. 8 Colliery and the coal mining legacy of Ipswich, there are several valuable resources available.

The Ipswich Library houses important historical records, including information from an advertisement in The Queensland Times dated 14 June 1930, as well as contributions from local historian John Walker on 6 July 2015.

Additionally, Queensland Places offers detailed insights into the Bundamba and Blackstone regions, shedding light on their roles in Queensland’s coal mining industry. These sources provide a deeper understanding of the impact and significance of the mining operations in the region and the communities they supported.