• Media Release

Victorian Mine Rescue Competition gets underway

Victoria’s Mine Rescue Competition gets underway today for three days of safety training in Bendigo.

Safety is the number one priority for the minerals industry. Organised by MCA Victoria, the competition aims to support mine rescue teams with simulated emergency scenarios to make the mining industry safer.

The Victorian Mine Rescue Competition has been running since 1993 and has grown into a national competition with nine teams taking part in 2022 from Victorian and NSW mines along with the CFA.

The competition will feature a variety of simulated emergencies where teams put their skills to the test.

MCA Victoria Executive Director James Sorahan said supporting the development of highly trained rescue personnel across Australia contributed greatly to the mineral industry’s commitment to zero harm.

Mine rescue teams compete in a range of events including team skills, firefighting, first aid, rope rescue and search and rescue.

MATES in Mining will take part to support mental health awareness in mine rescue teams.

The competition will involve emergency response agencies including Ambulance Victoria, Police Search and Rescue, and the SES to help ensure first responders and safety agencies are prepared for any incidents across the state.

MCA Victoria launched a new publication today, with the support of WorkSafe Victoria, to assist mine operators in understanding their legislative requirements for emergency management and the government emergency arrangements.

Winners of the competition will be announced at the completion of the exercises on Sunday 13 November.

Teams competing in 2022:

  • Cadia Valley
  • Ballarat Mine
  • Mandalay Costerfield
  • Stawell Gold Mines
  • Northparkes Mines
  • Cowal Gold Mine
  • CFA Oscar 1 Technical Rescue
  • Hera Mine
  • Agnico Eagle Fosterville

For further information:

James Sorahan, Executive Director, MCA Victorian Division 0448 802 546