A MAN'S body has been recovered and an investigation launched into a fatal workplace incident where a contractor fell down a 450-metre deep mine shaft in the Hunter Valley.
Police, paramedics and firefighters were called to Dry Creek Road at Ellalong just before 1pm on Tuesday, September 17, after reports of a workplace incident.
Police at the scene near Cessnock were told a 59-year-old man, who Newcastle Herald understands was was part of a crew working to cover up a "de-commissioned mine shaft", had fallen into the 450-metre deep hole and died.
Hunter Valley officers remained at the scene on Tuesday evening, backed by the Police Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit, Fire and Rescue NSW crews and NSW Ambulance paramedics.
The operation continued into Wednesday where specialist rescue crews were able to recover the man's body, which was found in water at the bottom of the mine shaft.
The incident occurred at the old Austar coal mine which is currently non-operational but undergoing closure works.
Mine operator Yancoal released a statement on Wednesday afternoon confirming "the death of a contractor following a recovery operation".
"We extend our deepest sympathies to the man's family, friends and colleagues, and we have offered the company's full support to them as they deal with their devastating loss," the statement said.
"Yancoal continues to work closely with emergency services, relevant authorities and regulators on this incident and is assisting with the ongoing investigations. We are unable to provide further details at this time."
The Resources Regulator in NSW was also called to the "serious incident". The regulator's mine safety and major safety investigation units were deployed to the incident. They are working with other agencies as part of an investigation into what happened at the site.
"As this incident is under investigation by the regulator, it would be inappropriate to comment further," a spokesperson said.
Union representatives said the NSW mining community was "shocked and saddened by the news that a worker has died".
Northern Mining and NSW Energy district president Robin Williams said the fatality had sent shockwaves through the Hunter Valley community.
"This is the worst news we can ever receive. We are devastated that a coal miner is not returning home," Mr Williams said.
"Our hearts go out to friends and family. We offer our deepest thanks to first responders and support to workmates who may be traumatised by the events.
"The investigation will continue to uncover how this has occurred and prevent future fatalities and injuries."
A report will be prepared for information for the Coroner.
In an unrelated incident 10 years ago, the Hunter was shaken when two workers died in the Paxton mine disaster at Austar Coal Mine in 2014.
