Newmont reaffirms safety focus following Tanami incident

Operations at Newmont’s Tanami mine site in the Northern Territory continue to be suspended, as investigations into the fatal incident on February 4 remain underway.

NT WorkSafe has confirmed its enquiry into the death of a 47-year-old worker on one of Australia’s largest underground gold mines is ongoing, with initial inquiries by the regulator suggesting a potential winch failure during a lift could have been a contributing factor.

According to the NT Police Force, after being notified of the fatality at 4 pm on February 4, officers from one of the closest towns to the site, Yuendumu, which is located 270 km away, attended the scene.

“Investigations are ongoing with members from the Coronial Investigation Unit and Crime Scene Examination Unit [on site],” police said.

Tanami, the most remote mine site in Australia, supports a workforce of more than 1800 fly-in-fly-out personnel.

Following the incident, Newmont has reaffirmed its commitment to safety and its employees.

“Safety remains our highest priority, and we are committed to supporting our people,” the company said in a statement.

“Our thoughts are with the individual’s family, friends and colleagues during this very difficult time.”

In the aftermath of the incident, Newmont said its “emergency response procedures were immediately activated” with all activities at the Tanami site suspended.

As authorities work to establish a cause, the company added that it will support all investigative efforts.

“Newmont will provide our full support to assist with the investigation into this tragic incident.”