Construction worker dies at outback gold mine

A worker died on a construction site at a provincial gold mine following a suspected crane malfunction, sparking police and workplace safety investigations.

Emergency authorities were notified of the 47-year-old’s death at work at the Newmont company mine in the Tanami desert, about 540 km northwest of Alice Springs, on Wednesday afternoon.

Police arrived at the scene and a crime scene was established on Thursday when members of the Forensic Investigation Unit and Crime Scene Investigation Unit arrived at the scene.

NT WorkSafe said in a statement that the death was being investigated, with initial investigations indicating possible failure of the crane during lifting was a contributing factor.

All operations at the mine, which employs approximately 1,800 workers, have been suspended.

Newmont confirmed the death in a statement on Thursday, saying, “Our thoughts are with the individual’s family, friends and colleagues at this very difficult time.”

The company said it would provide full support to investigations into the man’s death.