Minister for mines Anthony Lynham announced the funding on the eve of a memorial service in Moura to commemorate 12 miners killed on 16 July 1986 in an underground explosion at the Moura No.4 coal mine.

“Moura and its people have played an important role in the history of coal mining in Queensland,” Lynham said.

“The new miners’ memorial planned by the Moura Community Progress Inc is a fitting and lasting tribute to all the brave miners who have lost their lives in mining.

“I understand the memorial project is shovel ready and the Labor state government is pleased to contribute $25,000 towards this important local initiative.”

Member for Mirani and former miner Jim Pearce welcomed the government’s contribution.

“I was pleased to raise the request for funding with the government and am excited the project will proceed and honour the memories of colleagues and be a reminder to all of us of the risks that miners face when going about their daily work,” Pierce said.

Lynham paid his respects to the 12 workers lost 30 years ago today in the Moura No.4 mine accident.

“I join with the families, friends and work colleagues in paying respect to these brave men who died while working to support their families and contribute to the prosperity of Moura and the state,” he said.

“They were not the only coal miners lost in Moura mining accidents.

“We also remember today those 13 miners lost in the 1975 Kianga No.1 mine accident; and the 1994 Moura No.2 mine accident which cost 11 lives.

“Every death in mining is one death too many.

“Valuable lessons were learnt from these mining tragedies and the recommendations from subsequent inquiries helped frame the strict mining safety and health laws we have in Queensland today.

“The memorial service is an opportunity to reflect upon and commemorate the lives of the 12 Moura No.4 miners.

“It is also an opportunity for the mining industry, workers, unions and government to reaffirm our commitment to zero harm so every miner goes home safely at the end of every shift.”