The incident took place in the rib line area that was being developed for future longwall mining.

Early investigation findings show that the flame was triggered upon the installation of standard strata support.

Fitzroy Australia crew quickly extinguished the flame, leaving no personnel injured in the incident.

The company immediately suspended mining activities in the development panels, pending the outcome of its investigation alongside Queensland Mines Inspectorate (QMI).

“QMI attended (the) site on 11 July 2020 to commence inquiries into the incident,” the QMI stated.

“The mine is investigating the incident in accordance with its obligations. All development activities have been suspended.”

Carborough Downs is an underground longwall mine in the Bowen Basin, producing predominantly coking coal as well as pulverised coal injection (PCI) as a secondary product. It employs around 340 full time employees and contractors.

Fitzroy Australia had undertaken a longwall expansion at the Carborough Downs mine to maximise reserve extraction.