When the pressure was on, Carborough Downs delivered, claiming the title of Queensland’s top underground mines rescue team at the 55th Queensland Mines Rescue State Cup.
Hosted at Argo Natural Resources’ Carborough Downs Coal Mine on Thursday 13 August, the competition brought together some of the state’s best mines rescue teams for a full day of emergency response scenarios designed to put their skills, teamwork and decision-making to the test.
At the end of a demanding day, the home team came out on top. Carborough Downs, captained by Matthew Harris, claimed first place ahead of Grosvenor in second, Moranbah North in third and Oaky North in fourth.
While there’s a trophy on the line, the State Cup puts teams through practical scenarios reflecting the conditions and challenges they may face during a real mine emergency. It tests everything from technical knowledge and communication to leadership and the ability to make decisions under pressure.
Queensland Mines Rescue Service Chief Executive Officer Tim Jackson congratulated the winning team and all competitors.
“Congratulations to Carborough Downs on taking out the 55th Queensland State Cup and to every team that competed,” said Tim.
“The competition tests far more than technical knowledge. Teams must communicate clearly, make sound decisions and work together while responding to complex situations under pressure.
“These skills are built through regular training and the commitment of mines rescue team members, their operations and the people who support them throughout the year.
“The standard demonstrated at Carborough Downs reflects the strength of Queensland’s mines rescue capability and the industry’s continued focus on emergency preparedness.”
Captain Matthew Harris, said the result reflected the work that takes place long before competition day.
“Winning the State Cup means a great deal to the team and reflects the time and effort everyone has put into preparing for the competition.
“Every scenario tested us in a different way, from communication and technical knowledge to decision-making under pressure.
“We are proud to represent Carborough Downs and compete against mines rescue teams of this standard from across Queensland.”
It was also a significant State Cup for host Argo Natural Resources, with two of its operations competing under the Argo banner for the first time.
Argo Natural Resources Chief Operating Officer Adam Foulstone said Carborough Downs was proud to host the event.
“Hosting the 55th Queensland State Cup gave Argo and the Carborough Downs team the opportunity to support the people who contribute to mine safety and emergency response across Queensland,” said Adam.
“It was also the first State Cup where two of our operations competed under the Argo banner, which was an important milestone for our teams and our business.
“We thank QMRS, the assessors, officials, volunteers and everyone at Carborough Downs who contributed to delivering the competition.”
Individual performances were also recognised, with Moranbah North Captain Jason Seaborn awarded the Chief Inspector’s Trophy.
Carborough Downs Captain Matthew Harris added another achievement to the team’s successful day, taking home the Matt Best Trophy.
The teams and award recipients were recognised later that evening at the Presentation Dinner at the Isaac Events Centre in Moranbah.
Mines rescue competitions have a long history in Queensland’s resources industry, giving teams the opportunity to put their training into practice and learn from their counterparts across the industry. Ultimately, it is preparation for the day those skills may be needed in a real emergency.
