Moranbah, Queensland — The Grosvenor Mine, an important coal mining operation in Queensland, is facing an extended shutdown following an underground combustion incident. 

The fire, which erupted on June 29, continues to burn, leading to warnings from mine operators that the site may remain closed for several months.

Anglo American, the company operating the Grosvenor Mine, confirmed today that efforts are ongoing to seal the final ventilation shafts to contain the blaze. The mine, located just outside Moranbah and southwest of Mackay, employs approximately 1,400 workers.

In an internal communication, Anglo-American CEO Daniel van der Westhuizen assured employees they would continue to receive their wages until at least July 15. “We will provide updates on the next steps before this date and are collaborating with unions to explore short to medium-term employment options for our Grosvenor workforce,” he stated. 

He added that further engagement with employees would occur once the situation is better understood.

Mining and Energy Union Queensland President Mitch Hughes confirmed that all workers were safe and accounted for, with no injuries or fatalities reported. “We are greatly relieved that the workers are safe. 

However, the incident is a matter of significant concern,” Hughes said. “MEU ISHRs [Industry Safety and Health Representatives] are en route to the site to conduct independent investigations.”

Before the fire, the Grosvenor Mine was projected to produce about 3.5 million tons of steelmaking coal in 2024.

Anglo American indicated that they are working with specialist teams from the Queensland Mines Rescue Service and regulatory authorities to extinguish the underground fire. “These procedures are expected to take several months due to the likely damage underground,” the company stated.

The Grosvenor Mine has a history of safety incidents, including a methane explosion in 2020 that resulted in injuries to five people.

The ongoing situation is a significant blow to the mine’s operations and has raised concerns about the safety protocols in place at the facility. 

Authorities and specialists are now focused on ensuring the site’s safety and preparing for a complex recovery and re-entry process.