November 18, 2025 - Mines Rescue brigades were called to Centennial Coal’s Cooranbong Mine, near Newcastle, on Friday, 7 November 2025, to test their emergency response skills at the annual Newcastle Mines Rescue competition.

Teams faced a series of realistic rescue scenarios that tested their knowledge, skills, and teamwork under pressure. The competition also provided a valuable development opportunity, giving new brigade members the chance to work alongside and learn from more experienced brigade members.

The Orange team, captained by Jordan Mearns, was named the overall winners of the event. Jordan thanked Mines Rescue and the mine sites for allowing the teams to train and compete, emphasising that their efforts weren’t about accolades, but being ready to respond when it matters most and making a real difference.

“I’ve just come back from the Australian [Mines Rescue] competition, and with that high level of training and expectation, I wanted to use my experience to lift this new team,” said Jordon.

“Today I rallied the team to set high standards, with my goal being for them to perform effectively in real-life situations. This was a very challenging competition that tested the core skills we learn as brigade members, yet the team stood tall. I’m so proud of every one of them and looking forward to leading them at the Australian competition next year,” he added.

A formal presentation dinner was held to announce the winners and honour both new inductees and long-standing contributors to Mines Rescue.

In addition to awards recognising 5, 15 and 25 years of service, Tony Sutcliffe was humbled and honoured to receive a 40-year service award. He reflected on the people he met, the camaraderie shared, and the experiences that shaped his time in Mines Rescue, expressing heartfelt thanks to all who supported him along the way.

The perpetual ‘Champions Award’ recognises individuals who embody Mines Rescue’s core values of ‘we care, we work together and we make a difference’. This year’s recipient was Steve Pettit, who served 28 years as a brigade member and retired 12 months ago. He was overwhelmed as he spoke of the legacy of past recipients, some of whom had previously been his team captains. He also shared how much he loved every minute of his time in mines rescue and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a remarkable group of people.

Mines Rescue’s core role is to support the NSW coal mining industry during emergencies. Although serious incidents are rare, events like this ensure brigade members maintain the skills and readiness required to respond when it matters.

Orange team members: (L-R) Ash Copp, Jeremy Neal, Ben McGlinn, Blake Harrison (vice-captain), Jordan Mearns (captain) Absent: Scott Goodwin