Quarry tragedy sparks warning from Minister

Quarry tragedy sparks warning from Minister

24 July 2013

THE public has been urged to stay away from disused quarries following a recent double drowning tragedy near Annalong.

Environment Minister, Alex Attwood, is appealing to people not to swim in quarry lakes after the death of Kevin O’Hare (15) and Colin Polland (39) in a lake at Paul’s quarry several weeks ago.

A summer campaign is underway which will involve new signs being erected at quarries that are known to be dangerous. Social media is also be used to raise understanding of the threat and danger.

“We all should be aware of the dangers of disused quarries,” said Mr. Attwood. “Several people have died in disused quarries in recent years.

“I have met or heard from some of the families and their pain and anxiety that more lives should not be lost, is vivid.

“I am launching a series of actions to highlight the dangers of swimming in quarries. Disused quarries are not playgrounds. They are not places to explore. I cannot emphasise enough that everyone, adults, teenagers and children must stay away. Quarries are ‘no go areas’.

“Most people do not realise how very cold quarry water can be. It can be much colder than rivers and the sea and this causes swimmers, even the best swimmers, to cramp, go into shock and drown quickly. This is the stark truth.

“Quarries pose other hidden dangers. Old machinery can be left in the quarry and become submerged by rainwater over time. Such machinery may not be visible and can cause serious injury or death to anyone who jumps onto it.

“I urge all parents to know where your children are at all times, particularly during the summer holidays,” he said.

Mr. Attwood also warned mountain bikers and motorcyclists of the dangers of going onto quarry faces, which can collapse or subside suddenly.