Kestrel mine was named the “Most Improved” operation in Rio Tinto’s Chief Executive Safety Awards, which promote a culture of excellence in safety across the group’s global portfolio.

Walsh visited the site to present the trophy and meet safety leaders, including the Kestrel Mines Rescue Team, which was preparing to represent Australia at the International Mines Rescue competition in Poland in September.

“The team here at Kestrel Mine can be very proud of the way they’ve continuously improved safety, as a leader in the Australian underground mining industry,” Walsh said.

“At the end of the day, safety is all about people and Kestrel mine has a real focus actively engaging all team members in the journey towards zero harm.”

“The performance of the Kestrel Mine Rescue Team is just one example of this commitment. I look forward to seeing them make Australia and Rio Tinto proud at the world competition later this year.”

The Rio Tinto Chief Executive Safety Awards are open to all Rio Tinto operations. Assessors looked for excellence in site safety culture, safety leadership and employee engagement.

Kestrel received the award for the use of visible and passionate safety leaders as coaches; MATESAFE program encouraging interdependent safety behaviour; quality of processes such as safety interactions and incident investigations; and management of critical risk through the golden rules, supported by highly visual and engaging communication methods.

The team was invited to compete at the International Mines Rescue competition after it became the first team to win all three Australian rescue competitions open to Queensland mines in 2012.

Kestrel mine general manager of operations John Coughlan said: “I am proud of each and every person who works at our operation.

“This award recognises the deep commitment we have made in developing a strong safety culture in the way that we work.”