Broken Hill braces for mine closure as Christmas looms

Broken Hill residents are rallying around workers and their families as the city comes to grips with the decision to close the Rasp Mine and its potential economic impacts.

It is believed that about 200 workers will be directly affected by the staged closure, which will begin on November 30.

The Mining and Energy Union says it is working to find jobs for dozens of employees who are facing redundancy if the mine is not sold.

“To happen just before Christmas — it’s unfortunate timing,” union representative Todd Ferguson said.

“The union will be doing a bit of legwork to see if we can source potential employment for our members, and the workforce as a whole.

“As I understand it, Rasp is still a viable mine … there is the potential for someone to come in and buy it.”

‘A challenging time’

Retail worker Peter Nash said the decision was likely to affect the region’s economy.

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

“Six weeks out from Christmas is never ideal, either.

“So many of our local businesses rely on the Christmas trade, and it sort of does put a bit of a dampener on it.

“Hopefully the true spirit of Broken Hill comes to the fore and people get around each other.

“It’s disappointing that they’re going to close, but we should also be very grateful that they’ve been in the Broken Hill community for 10 to 15 years.”

Lifeline Broken Hill Country to Coast is reminding residents of the importance of reaching out to workers and their families.

“For people who are concerned about a family member or a loved one, lifeline’s first piece of advice is always check-in,” chief executive Robert Martin said.

He said financial counselling and advocacy were available for people concerned about income and debt.

Toho Zinc, which owns CBH Resources, has been contacted for comment.

CBH Resources declined to be interviewed.