Broken Hill Rasp mine closure just weeks before Christmas puts about 200 workers out of a job

Hundreds of workers will be left without jobs in the run-up to Christmas due to the closure of a mine in New South Wales.

About 200 workers at the Rasp mine in Broken Hill, in the state’s west, will be directly affected by its closure at the end of the month.

The Mining and Energy Union said it is trying to secure alternative employment for dozens of workers who face redundancy if the mine is not sold.

The union said the timing of the closure, which was due to start on November 30, just weeks before Christmas, was “unfortunate”.

“The union will be doing some preliminary work to see if we can find potential employment opportunities for our members and the workforce as a whole,” union representative Todd Ferguson told the newspaper. ABC.

“As I understand it, Rasp is still a viable mine… there is a possibility that someone could come and buy it.”

Residents of Broken Hill, coping with the enormous loss, are reportedly rallying behind the workers and their families.

Local shop worker Peter Nash said the shock decision was likely to have an impact on the region’s economy.

“It’s going to be a challenging time and a worrying time for people,” he told the ABC.

‘Six weeks off from Christmas is never ideal.

“Many of our local businesses rely on the Christmas trade and that puts a bit of a dampener.”

Mr Nash said the closure was “disappointing” but locals “must also be very grateful that they have lived in the Broken Hill community for 10 to 15 years”.

Broken Hill residents have reportedly rallied around Rasp Mine workers and their families (Photo: Broken Hill stock image)

Lifeline Broken Hill Country to Coast has urged employees and their families to seek support as they cope with the devastating news.

“For people concerned about a family member or loved one, Lifeline’s first piece of advice is always to check in,” CEO Robert Martin said.

He said financial guidance and advocacy was available for people concerned about income and debt.

Last month, mining giant Glencore announced its Mount Isa underground mine operation in north-west Queensland will close within two years, citing low ore quality and outdated infrastructure.

The closure of one of the world’s largest copper mines will impact the mine’s 1,200 employees, but will also have a dramatic ripple effect on the 18,317 residents who call Mount Isa home.

Community leaders vowed to stand with locals to ensure the mining town is not wiped off the map and that new mines are earmarked for the region.

Dail Mail Australia has contacted Rasp Mine owner CBH Resources for comment.