Today marks the one-year anniversary of the tragic deaths of Holly Clarke and Patrick "Ambrose" McMullen at the Endeavor Mine in Cobar.
On this difficult day, I extend my deepest sympathies to their families, friends and colleagues, including Mackenzie Stirling who was seriously injured in the incident.
This anniversary will be a painful day for everyone who knew and loved them, and for the wider Cobar and mining communities.
There is no higher priority in mining than the safety of workers. That responsibility belongs to all of us. It is a process that doesn't end. Every worker has the right to come home at the end of their shift.
The NSW Resources Regulator's investigation into the incident is ongoing and will be released publicly when complete. The Government will take any necessary actions as we work towards safer sites for all workers.
Cobar has been at the centre of NSW mining for more than 100 years, and mining remains central to Cobar today. Keeping our mines safe is crucial to the future.
An industry can only be strong if the people who work in it are protected, and if workers and their families have confidence it will look after them.
