The sole survivor of a fatal mine explosion in far western New South Wales has suffered permanent hearing damage, her family has confirmed.
The blast occurred underground at a Cobar mine last week, killing two workers and leaving a third seriously injured.
Mackenzie Stirling, aged in her 20s, was taken to hospital with hearing loss and shock following the incident.
She has since been discharged and is now recovering at home, but her aunt says the long-term impacts are significant.
“While now recovering at home, Mackenzie has sustained permanent hearing damage and continues to struggle with the traumatic events of that day,” Emma Thomas said on a crowdfunding page set up to support her niece.
“She faces a long road to recovery and, on top of that, the financial strain of covering her bills and medical expenses while unable to return to work.”
Fellow worker Holly Clarke, 24, was brought to the surface alongside Stirling but later died of her injuries.
Ambrose “Ambie” McMullen, 59, an Irish national described by locals as a “true gentleman”, was also killed. All three were residents of Cobar.
Investigations into the cause of the explosion are ongoing.
It is understood the workers had been attempting to clear a blockage using a ballistic disc explosive when it unexpectedly detonated. The devices are typically triggered remotely.
“We will leave no stone unturned in identifying what has occurred here,” NSW Mineworkers Alliance spokesperson Tony Callinan said.
“This is a tragic reminder that underground mining is a dangerous job.”
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns expressed his condolences following what he called a “heartbreaking incident,” saying last week: “Everyone who goes to work has the right to come home.”
Images: GoFundMe
