Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Peter Feeney and I’m a Deputy at Chain Valley Colliery. My role is all about making sure the job is done properly, efficiently and with everyone looking out for each other.
When did you start in the mining industry and what was your first job?
I started in the industry back in 2008 at United Collieries. My first role was in secondary support, which gave me a solid grounding and a real appreciation for the importance of safety and teamwork underground.
How different is your job now to what you wanted to be when you were a kid?
Very different! When I was a kid, I wanted to be a professional surfer – which, realistically, was never a chance. Mining definitely wasn’t on the radar back then, but it’s turned out to be a rewarding and stable career.
What does a usual day at work entail?
A usual day involves supervising people and working alongside one of the best crews I’ve ever been part of. Every day is a bit different, but it’s all about supporting the team, keeping things running smoothly and making sure everyone goes home safe.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The camaraderie, without a doubt. The bonds you build underground are hard to match and working with a crew that genuinely looks out for one another makes all the difference.
The worst thing?
Sometimes the conditions can be pretty poor. It’s not always comfortable work, and there are days when the environment really tests you.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?
Balancing home life – especially having a teenage daughter! Juggling shift work and family responsibilities can be tough, but it’s all part of it.
What’s something about your job that would surprise people to know?
At Chain Valley we are mining underneath a lake. Most people outside the industry would be pretty shocked to know just how complex and technical some of the work can be.
What’s your best advice for people entering the industry?
Listen to the old timers and always take your time and work safe. There’s a lot of knowledge in the industry, and the people who’ve been around a while have plenty to teach.
The mining industry gets more than its fair share of criticism. What is your view of our industry and the impact it has?
Mining is an absolute necessity to provide power to the state. It’s also provided an income and a good life for many generations of coal miners, supporting families and entire communities along the way.
