Mt Mulligan Mine Disaster

Have you seen the display about Queensland mining disasters at the Coalface Experience? The worst coal mining disaster in Queensland happened at Mt Mulligan on the 19th of September, 1921. This northern coal mine, situated west of Cairns, was often described as a gas-free mine. Flammable gasses had never been detected in the mine and carbide lamps were used by the miners. At 9:25 am a large explosion was heard from the mine. As the women and surviving men rushed to the mine entrance the scene was devastating. Heavy black smoke rolled from the mine openings and debris lay up to 40 metres from the entrance and grass smouldered from the blast of coal dust and flame. It was quickly clear that every one of the 75 men underground were killed.
Following the Mt Mulligan disaster a separate Coal Mining Act was introduced in Queensland to bring in measures to protect coal miners. In this Act provision was made for the appointment of Mines Inspectors, the use of Safety Lamps and the banning of naked lights underground, and rules for the application of stone dust. Sadly, it was too late for the Mt Mulligan miners.
Mt Mulligan holds a special place in the hearts of many Collinsville locals. In 1957 the Mt Mulligan mine closed and many families moved to Collinsville for employment in the State Mine.
In the image below is a photo of Mt Mulligan school before the disaster. Most of the children pictured lost their fathers on that terrible day.
For more info about Mt Mulligan, visit the Coalface Experience: www.coalfaceexperience.com.au