Mount Isa to observe Miners Memorial Day on Monday
Richard Dinnen - Queensland Editor |
The north-west mining town of Mount Isa will pause on Monday morning to remember people who have lost their lives working in Queensland mines.
Queensland Miners Memorial Day is held each year on September 19, the anniversary of the state’s worst mining disaster, at Mount Mulligan, west of Cairns, in 1921.
The final death toll was 75. Despite a Royal Commission, the cause was never determined with certainty, although theories abound.
Mount Isa Miner Workers Memorial Advisory Committee Chair, Tony McGrady, said Monday’s service will be a time to reflect on the importance of remaining vigilant about protecting the safety and health of mine workers.
“I appeal to the people of Mount Isa to turn out in full force on Monday, to remember those mine workers who died in the industry and pay our respects to those of our deceased family and friends who lost their lives providing the future that we all enjoy today.
“This function is a memory of those people who were part of the great Mount Isa mining industry and should never be forgotten.
“To me, these events are also a celebration of the vast improvement in the safety in the local mining industry.
“It should be a reminder to management and staff that we must always continue to strive to improve the safety in this vital industry for Mount Isa, Queensland, and Australia.”
Mount Isa Mayor, Danielle Slade, said it’s important to remember mine workers who lost their lives.
“The Advisory Committee is working diligently towards the establishment of a memorial for northwest mine workers.
“We are hopeful of this being completed in two years’ time, and for Mount Isa to host that year’s Miners Memorial Day Service for Queensland.”
The ceremony will be held on the Mount Isa Civic Centre front lawns at 7.30am.
