Byerwen mine tragedy: Tributes for father-of-five Chris Schloss killed in QCoal tragedy
Miner and father of five Chris Schloss is being remembered as a much-loved family man and respected team member following his tragic death at a mine site in Central Queensland on Saturday.
Emergency services arrived early on Saturday morning at QCoal’s Byerwen mine, about 1,000km north of Brisbane in the coal-rich Bowen Basin, after reports that Mr Schloss had been struck by a crane.
The 48-year-old died at the scene.
In a statement on Monday, QCoal chief executive James Black said the QCoal family had suffered a “devastating loss”.
“Chris has been part of the QCoal family for many years and has played a key role in the development of Byerwen since its launch,” he said.
Our thoughts are with Chris’ wife Amanda, his children and their entire family at this terrible time.
‘The death of such a long serving, senior and much loved member of the QCoal team has obviously shocked us. His family are reeling from the worst news you could possibly hear, and we are helping them through this tragedy.
‘We are also providing support to staff on site and across the organisation as we process this incredible loss.
Chris Schloss died on Saturday after being hit by a crane in a coal mine
“QCoal is cooperating with government investigators and law enforcement on the incident, but our focus is on Chris’ family and his many friends at QCoal and at our facilities.”
Mr. Schloss is survived by his five children: Magan, Thomas, Kate, Memphys and Zara.
Resources Safety and Health Queensland is investigating the fatal accident.
“While it is too early to determine the cause of the incident, initial reports indicate that a crane was involved,” the safety agency said on Saturday.
‘A coal inspector from RSHQ and an investigator from our Serious Incident Investigation Unit are on site.
‘Our thoughts today are with the employee’s family, friends and colleagues.
‘RSHQ has focused a lot of attention on safety around pick and carry cranes over the last 12 months. This has been done through discussions with the sector, safety warnings and an animation to increase knowledge and understanding.’
QCoal’s Byerwen mine is located near the town of Glenden in the Bowen Basin. Photo: Supplied
Chris Schloss was remembered as a beloved family man and respected team member
Mr Schloss was part of QCoal’s Tell Them Where To Go campaign against the Queensland government, which is pressuring the company to move its workforce from its on-site camp to the town of Glenden, about 45 minutes away.
The company said the move would put the jobs of around 800 miners in Central Queensland at risk.
“Chris was an active member of our current campaign to save the Byerwen camp and his family have asked that his image and words not be removed as he felt strongly about the issue and they wish to honour his legacy,” Mr Black said.