Glencore puts $2 million toward Mount Isa miners memorial
A memorial to 150 miners who lost their lives on the job will be built above the mines that shaped Mount Isa, in Queensland’s north-west, with Glencore putting in $2 million.
The $4.7 million memorial on Frank Aston Hill will look out over the Mount Isa Mines, jointly funded by the Queensland Government, Glencore and Mount Isa City Council. It is due for completion by late-2027, with memorial panels, shaded areas, amphitheatre seating and spaces for reflection.
“Our $2 million contribution will help create a permanent tribute where people can remember and pay their respects,” Glencore Metals Australia general manager health, safety, environment and community Maryann Wipaki said.
“The memorial will also serve as a powerful reminder of our responsibility to continually improve safety and protect every person who works in our industry.”
Glencore’s contribution sits alongside the Government’s $2 million share, part of nearly $6 million from the Mount Isa Transition Fund backing a small business incubator, a 110ha circular economy industrial estate, and a research centre offering lab services to surrounding mines.
Families in Mount Isa had been asking for a place like this for years.
“For generations, mining families have contributed enormously to Mount Isa’s success and prosperity, and this memorial will provide a place for reflection, remembrance and respect,” Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Planning and Infrastructure Jarrod Bleijie said.
“The community has been calling for a fitting place to remember their loved ones for years, and this will honour the past while serving as a powerful reminder of the people at the heart of our mining communities.”
Mount Isa City Council Mayor Peta MacRae said the site would matter to families across the region.
“The Miner’s Memorial will be a deeply significant place for our community, providing a lasting place to honour those who lost their lives and recognise the contribution of mine workers and their families across the region.
“These investments along with others funded by the Crisafulli Government show confidence in Mount Isa and the people who call this city home.”