Anglo American says a fire at the Grosvenor coal mine in central Queensland is believed to be extinguished, almost 4 weeks after it started. 

This announcement was made during the company's 2024-25 financial year interim results presentation.

“Gas, temperature and drone monitoring suggest that the fire has now been extinguished,” Wanblad stated. 

He said the company is coordinating with authorities to investigate the workplace and assess the cause and extent of the damage. 

“We are developing plans with the authorities to examine the workplace in order to understand the cause and extent of the damage,” Wanblad said. 

“Now, having said that, we are unlikely to fully understand the extent of the damage for some time.”

Despite the fire being extinguished, the future of the mine under Anglo American's ownership remains uncertain. 

Wanblad indicated that it is improbable for the longwall restart to occur while the mine remains with Anglo American. 

This comes as the company is in the process of selling its Australian coal assets to shift focus towards copper.

“Considering the relatively high value and quality of that steelmaking coal reserve, we do believe it remains a viable asset,” Wanblad explained. 

“In parallel to us understanding it, we are going to continue with the sale process and move ahead as we had originally planned.”

The fire, which began on June 29 following a localised ignition on the mine's longwall face, led to the swift evacuation of all 150 workers underground at the time. No injuries were reported. Efforts were immediately initiated to seal all exits to deprive the fire of oxygen.

Wanblad said the company is still confident in the asset's viability. 

"The timing of the fire has added some complexity to that divestment process. But, as I said, after some careful consideration, after good discussions with Dan and the team, and after a number of the potential buyers confirming their interest including the acquisition of Grosvenor, we are going to move on,” he said. 

The local community and workforce have been significantly impacted by the incident, and have reported psychological impacts for those who experienced a 2020 gas explosion at the same site. 

Anglo American has extended support to its workers, including extending pay until August 31 for all employees while the mine remains non-operational. 

Queensland Resources Minister Scott Stewart has announced a thorough investigation into the incident. 

“I expect Anglo American to ensure its workforce is prioritised and given what they need,” Stewart stated. 

“This is a serious incident that should not have happened and a full and thorough investigation will now begin.”