In the mines
The first coal mines in Australia were located in the Newcastle/Upper Hunter region and supplied the coal-fired steam ships used to carry passengers and general cargo around the Australian coast. In order to protect its supplies of bunkering coal The Adelaide Steamship Company Limited bought a substantial interest in Abermain-Seaham Collieries Limited. Prior to mechanisation miners in underground mines worked with little more than a pick and shovel for long periods in dusty, dark and dangerous conditions.
