The Queensland Mines Rescue Service (QMRS) has a long and steadfast history of ensuring the safety of miners across the state.
Founded in 1909, the first Mines Rescue brigade was established on the Ipswich coalfields, with the first permanent Mines Rescue station built there in 1923. As the mining industry expanded, further brigades were formed with stations in Collinsville, Blackwater, Moura, and Dysart.
Originally, the state was divided into three divisions; Southern, Central and Northern, and each managed separately to provide rescue capabilities in their respective areas. Funding was provided on a one-third share basis between coal mining companies, the Department of Mines and the Queensland Workers Compensation Board (now Workcover Queensland).
In 1989, the three-division system was unified into the Queensland Mines Rescue Brigade, aiming to standardise procedures and equipment. However, in 1996, the government announced its intention to withdraw funding for mines rescue services. This led to the formation of Queensland Mines Rescue Service Ltd on January 1, 1998, which continues to operate as a not-for-profit organisation and an Accredited Corporation under the Coal Mining Safety Act.
QMRS remains committed to managing risk and ensuring safety in both underground and surface mining environments, specialising in a wide range of rescue operations, from combating fires to responding to explosions, rockfalls, toxic gases and water influxes.
Scott Ryan, a Queensland Mines Rescue Captain, has been a part of QMRS for over a decade.
“I have always had an interest and passion for rescue. I wanted to be able to have the tools and knowledge to assist if ever an emergency arose.
“These skills have been beneficial not just in rescue and work, but also in my personal life. Being calm and responsive is important in any emergency situation.
“I believe every coal mine worker should undergo, as a minimum, basic mines rescue training to gain a better understanding of the environment in which they work,” said Scott.
Scott said because no two days are ever the same there are many different and essential skills required for someone in mines rescue, such as firefighting, first aid, knowledge of underground gases and, most importantly, teamwork.
“There is no typical day in Mines Rescue. We are on call 24 hours a day to provide rescue support if required. Being able to work under pressure and remain calm is essential, as no two emergencies are the same.”
Because of this, training for new recruits at QMRS is rigorous.
“New recruits are put through an intense three-week block period. During this training, recruits face hazardous situations wearing breathing apparatus. They are taught to maintain and use all rescue equipment. Once the block training is completed the recruit must maintain regular training to stay compliant and so they can continue to develop and grow their skills.”
One of Scott’s memorable rescue operations was the re-entry of North Goonyella Coal Mine, now Centurion Mine.
“Every rescue operation is different, with some positive outcomes and some not. This was a great team experience as we utilised our skills and training in a real environment. We investigated a hazardous area of the mine after an incident that caused it to close. This deployment reinforced the importance of teamwork.
“The biggest challenge is the uncertainty of emergencies. We overcome this by relying on our training and team. Every team member has a specific role and responsibility. These expectations and the trust within our team is what allows us to operate effectively.”
Throughout the year Mines Rescue competitions are held, which include state, national and international competitions. These important events allow Mines Rescue members to hone their skills and practice the processes that are essential for real-life emergencies.
Jason’s team, Moranbah North, are one of Queensland’s standout teams and later this year will be competing in the International Mines Rescue competition for the third time in a row.
“We have been fortunate to have the support and backing from Anglo American to compete internationally. We participated in competitions in Russia (2018) and America (2022), and we have an upcoming competition in South America in September this year. We won second place in Russia for First Aid and second place in America for Fire Fighting.
“Competing internationally allows us to measure our skills against the best from around the world.”
After nearly 10 years as Team Captain, Scott has decided it is time to step down and begin mentoring the next generation of leaders.
“It’s time to share my knowledge and let the next generation gain experience. I have loved every year of being a Captain and will now enjoy being a team member again under the guidance of our new Team Captain, Jason Seaborn.”
Scott’s advice for someone considering joining the Mines Rescue team is to go for it, though don’t expect it to be easy.
“The community may not realise that being a mines rescue member is voluntary. Anyone can be a mines rescue member, but our mine sites have a dedicated selection process where eight members become a highly trained specialist team and QMRS trainers and staff work passionately to ensure our skills are current and we are prepared for any emergency.
“Being in a Mines Rescue team requires commitment, determination and hard work. Training days can be fatiguing on both the mind and body. Personal fitness is a priority. We train in unfavourable conditions, from working in a fire gallery to hanging off ropes from various heights.
“It also takes support from our families as we are often away training or at home studying. Without this support from work and families, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do.”
The future of QMRS involves continuous improvement and adaptation to new challenges. The service remains committed to the highest standards of safety and response in the mining sector, ensuring that their teams are well-equipped and prepared to handle any emergency.
With leaders like Scott Ryan and the support of dedicated team members, QMRS will continue to play a crucial role in safeguarding the lives of miners across Queensland.