WorkSafe charges mining companies after fatal rock fall
WorkSafe has charged the operator of Ballarat Gold Mine and a mining services company after a worker died and another suffered life-threatening injuries at Mount Clear in March 2024.
Kurt Hourigan, 37, died and Connor Smith, 21, suffered life-threatening injuries following a rock fall while they were conducting air leg mining works in a section of the mine.
Victory Minerals Pty Ltd and Carr Mining Services Pty Ltd each face two charges under section 21(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act for failing to provide or maintain a safe working environment.
WorkSafe alleges both companies breached section 21(2)(a) of the OHS Act by failing to provide a safe system of work that required ground support to be installed in the section of the mine where the air leg mining works were occurring.
It is further alleged both companies breached section 21(2)(e) of the OHS Act by failing to supervise workers to ensure adequate ground supports were installed in the section of the mine during its development.
The matters are listed for a filing hearing at Ballarat Magistrates' Court on 18 December 2025.
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