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Two workers have been killed and another injured in an explosion at a recently reopened mine in Australia.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday in the state of New South Wales.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said it was a “sober reminder” of the dangers of the industry.
Emergency services were called to the remote mining town of Cobar, about 700 km (435 miles) northwest of Sydney, after receiving reports that two people were seriously injured in an incident at a workplace, police said.
Australian media reported that the incident occurred at the Endeavor silver, zinc and lead mine owned by Polymetals Resources Ltd.
Polymetals did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The mine has operated since 1982 but was closed for maintenance in 2020.
Polymetals purchased the site in 2023 and resumed mining operations this year, according to the company website.
Minns said that although mining safety has improved significantly, the deaths show the sector should never stop being vigilant about worker safety.
“This is a heartbreaking day for the Cobar community and will be felt throughout the mining industry,” Minns said in a statement.