15 November 2017

Whitehaven Coal backs ex-service personnel into mining workforce

Whitehaven Coal has acknowledged the ex-service men and women who have served our nation and are now employed by the company.

Whitehaven employees and former defence personnel gathered recently at Maules Creek mine to share their stories and reflect on the transition from a life in the defence force to a job in mining.

Whitehaven employees also got behind Legacy this year with Tamworth Legacy and Boggabri RSL to help raise funds for the charity.

Former Corporal Mark Hurst, now employed by Whitehaven’s Narrabri Underground Coal Mine, said Whitehaven supported him on his transition into the workforce.

“Since making my decision to choose a career in the mining industry following my long-term role in the army, which included a nine-month tour of Afghanistan on Operation Slipper, I have been fortunate enough to gain employment with ADS, Whitehaven Coal’s underground Drilling Contractor who have supported me throughout my transition into the mining industry.”

Whitehaven CEO and Managing Director Paul Flynn said Whitehaven’s experience in hiring ex- service men and women had been extremely positive.

“We see peoples’ experience in the defence force as invaluable. The rigour, mental toughness and adaptability they’ve acquired during their time is impossible to list on a resume but are important skills when working in mining.

“Whitehaven and its contracting companies are proud to encourage the employment of ex- service personnel throughout the industry. The incredible sacrifice they’ve made for their country is something we need to celebrate more often,” Mr Flynn said.

There are many former defence officers and workers employed across Whitehaven’s mines in roles varying from administration to underground coal mining and heavy machinery operations, to training and development.

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