On Friday November 8, as the sun set over Moranbah’s Town Square, families, friends and colleagues came together to honour coal miners who never made it home from work. The annual Moranbah Miners’ Memorial provided a moving opportunity for the mining community to unite in remembrance and reflect on the sacrifices of those who lost their lives to the industry.
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea captured the profound emotion of the gathering.
“For many in mining, the simple act of saying goodbye at the start of each shift holds immense meaning. When they step out the door, there’s a quiet, constant hope that they’ll come back home, unharmed. But here in Moranbah, fifteen of those farewells became final goodbyes.”
At 6pm, the remembrance lamps were lit, casting a glow that symbolised the lives of miners lost not only in Moranbah but throughout the industry. The memorial also honoured those who lost their lives travelling to and from work, in camps, and to coal-related illnesses.
This year’s ceremony featured the Legacy of Light art installation, a collaboration between the Moranbah Miners’ Memorial Committee and 4RFM. Whitsundays artist Desma Munroe created striking 12-foot images of miners holding lanterns, which became a centrepiece of the event. These lanterns symbolised hope and safety, with their glow reminding attendees of the miners’ legacy while lighting a path toward a safer future.
The installation also included hundreds of hand-decorated lanterns crafted by students from the Moranbah C&K Kindy, Moranbah State School, Moranbah East State School, and other local children. Their artwork and messages were displayed on the memorial lawn, inviting guests to pause, reflect and remember.
The involvement of local schools continues to play a vital role in the memorial’s purpose, to ensure conversations about safety remain at the forefront of community discussions. Through projects like this, children and families contribute to fostering a culture of awareness and remembrance.
Scott Leggett, President of the Moranbah Miners’ Memorial Committee, spoke to the significance of the event.
“Every year, this ceremony grows more meaningful, offering families, friends and coworkers a chance to come together and find support in shared memories. This event wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless efforts of our committee members, organisers and volunteers. Their dedication ensures we can continue to honour our miners with the respect and dignity they deserve.”
The memorial drew over four thousand attendees, both in person and online, demonstrating the profound impact of the mining industry on the Moranbah community and beyond.
The service was a meaningful and beautiful tribute to honour our lost miners. It ensures that the legacy of these miners’ lives on while promoting the importance of building a safer future for everyone working in the mining industry.
