Figures released by Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) reveal that one in 10 former miners tested in Mackay have been diagnosed with mine dust lung disease.
Since 2019, the HEART5 Mobile Health Unit and local clinics have screened 312 former workers in the region, with 32 confirmed cases of occupational lung diseases such as silicosis, black lung, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The HEART5 unit, a state-of-the-art mobile medical facility, is returning to Mackay this week to offer free screenings for retired mine and quarry workers.
The initiative aims to detect lung diseases early and provide life-changing diagnoses to affected individuals.
The unit has been stationed at the Resources Centre of Excellence since Monday, March 24, with today being its last day there.
HEART5 is a B-double truck equipped with advanced medical technology, including a high-resolution CT scanner and spirometry tools.
Operated by Heart of Australia in partnership with RSHQ, the mobile unit travels across Queensland to deliver accessible health checks for current and former workers in rural and remote areas.
Since its launch in February 2022, HEART5 has screened over 1,000 individuals statewide and identified more than 100 cases of mine dust lung disease.
Evan Pengelly, Director of RSHQ’s Health Surveillance Unit, emphasised the importance of these screenings, stating: “One in 10 people being diagnosed shows that workers can contract mine dust lung diseases even after leaving the industry.
“Many of these diseases develop without symptoms, making regular testing critical for early detection.”
The screenings include examinations by RSHQ-approved doctors, chest X-rays, spirometry tests for lung function, and CT scans if necessary.
The program is available to former mine and quarry workers with at least three years of experience in coal or mineral mines — six months of which must have been in Queensland operations.
Eligible individuals are encouraged to book their free health check by calling 1300 445 715.
With Mackay’s resources sector playing a pivotal role in the local economy, initiatives like HEART5 underscore the commitment to safeguarding workers’ health.
