Friends and colleagues are mourning the death of a much-loved mine worker after he tragically died in a horrific workplace accident.
Peter Groves, 29, died while at the Apollo Hill exploration project in the Eastern Goldfields region of Western Australia at around 2.50pm on 5 December.
Loved ones remember the drilling contractor as an energetic and “cheeky” friend who made everyone laugh.
Michael Goss said it was with great sadness that he shared the news of the passing of his dear friend and colleague.
“He was not only a co-worker but a dear friend to many in our community,” he wrote in a GoFundMe began raising funds for Mr. Groves’ family.
‘His partner Candice and her mother Julie-Ann are in complete disbelief along with the rest of their family and friends.
“Pete was a very funny person, with a big heart and someone you could sit and chat with for hours – he brought so much joy to the lives of everyone he was around.
“He was our friend, he was our partner, he was a partner, a son, a brother and a loving human being who will be greatly missed.”
Peter Groves, 29, (pictured with partner Candice) died on Thursday while at the Apollo Hill exploration project in Western Australia’s eastern Goldfields region.
It is understood Mr Groves was employed by Challenge Drilling and spent seven years working in WA’s Goldfields region.
The Apollo Hill Gold Project is led by gold exploration company Saturn Metals, which has suspended its exploration operations at Apollo Hill until further notice.
Saturn Metals CEO Ian Bambrough said the company is “shocked and saddened” by Mr Grove’s sudden passing.
“Our deepest condolences and condolences go out to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased worker,” Bambrough said.
There were four drill rigs and a team of between 15 and 18 geologists and equipment operators working at the gold mine at the time of Mr Groves’ death, Western Australia information.
Worksafe WA Commissioner Sally North said the agency will “thoroughly investigate” what may have caused Mr Groves’ death.
“On behalf of everyone at WorkSafe, I offer my deepest condolences to the worker’s family, friends and co-workers,” Ms North said in a statement.
‘I assure the community that WorkSafe will fully investigate the circumstances that led to this tragic loss.
Mr Groves (pictured with his partner) is understood to have worked for mining contractor Challenge Drilling and spent seven years working in the Goldfields region.
WA Police attended the scene and WorkSafe inspectors traveled from Perth to the scene on December 6, 2024.
‘Inspectors returned to Perth on December 9, 2024, but may return to Apollo Hill as the WorkSafe investigation progresses.
“WorkSafe is unable to provide further details while its investigation is ongoing.”
A report will be prepared for the coroner.