A community plea to support the loved ones of injured mine workers in Central Queensland achieved its goal in just hours.
The B Crew Longwall Team has received more than three times the donations they sought for five colleagues who on May 6 suffered an underground explosion at Anglo American’s Grosvenor Coal Mine in Moranbah, 198km southwest of Mackay.
Donations pour in
A Gofundme campaign launched by Robin Buchanan, Benny Trezise, Jy Pace, Josh Pokarier, Brad Meldrum, Jy Bird, Adam Goldsworthy, Calvin Murray and Col Fenton amassed more than $74,490 out of the original $20,000 target.
The actual amount is 272.5 per cent more than what the group was hoping for and Buchanan was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming support.
“Thank you to all those who have donated so far, the response has been amazing,” he said on the campaign page. “We have made an awesome start to providing support these men and their families need.”
Hundreds dig deep
More than 500 donors made an average donation of $149, some of which came from as far as across the Tasman Sea.
“Sending all our love from New Zealand,” donor Jozina Cross said.
Many of those who dug deep were locals who worked in the industry at different points in time.
“I have worked in the industry and Moranbah, and want to give some some support,” donor Glenn Minslow said. “I cannot imagine what they, their families and colleagues are going through. You are in our thoughts and prayers.”
“[I] work in the mining industry, and very sad to see people and families affected by the industry when accidents happen,” donor David Burey said.
“I work in the industry and know one of the men,” donor Murray Herwin said.
Related articles
Mine worker confirmed dead after wall collapses in the Top End
Funeral fundraiser for coal miner Jack Gerdes hopes to raise $20,000
Colleagues fear for the worst as two mine workers go missing
Mine workers help treat teenage victims in double fatal road crash.
Others expressed solidarity for affected staff, coworkers, family and friends.
“Thinking of you all, sending my love and support to the crews, friends, family and those who are injured,” donor Sam Storey said. “We are all standing right beside you.”
There’s still time
Donations are still being accepted and organisers promise all proceeds will help relieve medical hardship for the victims and their families.
“We work with these boys every tour,” Buchanan said. “This accident has shocked us all, and this is the least we can do to assist their families. Together let us financially assist the boys affected by the incident that occurred at Grosvenor, having a family member injured is always difficult, let us dig deep to support them.”
Add Comment