Mine rescue teams have tested their skills at the Victorian Mine Rescue Competition. 

Highly skilled mine rescue teams showcased their emergency response capabilities at Moranbah North mine for the 30th MCA Victorian Mine Rescue Competition (VMRC) over 20 – 22 October in Stawell.

South 32's Dendrobium Blue from Wollongong, NSW took third place.

The competition involved underground and surface simulations, testing hazard awareness, underground search and rescue, first aid, and firefighting skills. 

Real-life scenarios, such as rock falls and snake bites, were simulated. Competing teams were assessed by experts in each field.

Authorities emphasised the importance of these competitions in enhancing confidence and safety skills for emergency situations. 

Agnico Eagle's Fosterville Gold Mine clinched the top spot in the competition, with Mandalay's Costerfield Operations securing second place, and CSA Cobar taking third place. 

James Sorahan, Executive Director of the Minerals Council of Australia’s Victoria branch, expressed congratulations to all participants and extended gratitude to the volunteers, adjudicators, sponsors, and host mine, Stawell Gold Mines, for their contributions to the competition's success.

VMRC has become a vital component of the mining industry's commitment to highly trained rescue personnel and safety. 

The competition features eight teams engaged in simulated emergency scenarios, helping prepare mines for on-site emergencies, while fostering the exchange of knowledge and experience among mine rescue teams and emergency services. 

Notably, emergency response agencies like Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria also play a role in building links and enhancing preparedness within the mine rescue community.

Here are the results of the 2023 Victorian Mine Rescue Competition:

Overall:

1st Place: Fosterville Gold Mine

2nd Place: Mandalay Resources Costerfield Operations

3rd Place: CSA Cobar

Individual Awards:

  • Winning Team Captain: Dean Hodges of CSA Cobar

  • Overall Safety Award: CFA Oscar 1

  • Fire Exercise: CFA Oscar 1

  • First Aid: Central VIC Mine Rescue Group

  • Ropes Exercise: CSA Cobar

  • Underground Search & Rescue: Fosterville Gold Mine

  • Skills Exercise: Mandalay Resources Costerfield Operations

  • Theory: Central VIC Mine Rescue Group

  • Road Crash Rescue: CSA Cobar