Saturn Metals death: Tributes for Challenge Drilling worker Peter Groves killed at Apollo Hill in Goldfields
Friends and family have paid tribute to a fun-loving 29-year-old who died last week at a mining project in the northern Goldfields.
Peter Groves was killed following a “site incident” on Thursday afternoon at Saturn Metals’ Apollo Hill gold exploration project near Leonora.
Mr Groves was an employee of Boulder-based Challenge Drilling for the past seven years. One of his colleagues set up a GoFundMe page to support the Groves family, which has so far raised about $7500 of its $25,000 goal.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“He (Peter) was not just a co-worker but a beloved friend to many in our community, his partner Candice and his Mum Julie-Ann are in pure disbelief along side with the rest of his family and friends,” the GoFundMe description reads.
There was an outpouring of grief on social media for Mr Groves over the weekend.
“To my bro, my buddy, my bestie workmate, my homie and my good friend Peter we lost a legend. I am so devastated to not see you again brother,” one of Mr Groves’ friends said.
“The loud laugh the cheeky smile and the happiness you brought to me was next level after losing one brother you somehow managed to make everyone laugh at there worst. You had to be the most special. Till I see you again,” another said.
Challenge Drilling, which has about 50 employees, declined to comment when approached by The West Australian.
It’s understood there were four drill rigs and a crew of between 15 and 18 geologists and rig operators working at the Apollo Hill site at the time of Mr Groves’ death.
WorkSafe commissioner Sally North on Friday said there would be a thorough investigation into the incident.
“I assure the community that WorkSafe will thoroughly investigate the circumstances that led to this tragic loss,” Ms North said.
“WA Police have attended the scene and WorkSafe inspectors will travel from Perth to the site. WorkSafe is unable to provide further details while its investigation is ongoing.”
Mr Groves’ death is the second on a WA mine site this year.
Eli Kelly, a 21-year-old contractor, was killed at Gold Fields’ St Ives gold mine near Kambalda in April.
Mr Kelly’s mother, Alison Kelly, paid tribute to her son during the St Barbara’s Festival Miners Memorial service in Kalgoorlie on Wednesday.
