The Queensland mining industry has farewelled Big Al (Allan Houston) in a moving service in Rockhampton on Monday. Allan was tragically killed in a dozer incident at the Saraji Mine on New Year’s Eve.
Allan has been remembered as a ‘champion bloke’ who looked after his mates and, was highly skilled and extremely professional at anything he put his hand to.
“I really don’t know what to say, I don’t have the right words but he was just loving and selfless and would do anything for anyone,” a family member told the Brisbane Times.
BMA earlier said that as part of its commitment to safety, it would conduct an internal 
investigation as a priority into the incident. BMA is committed to sharing the findings in a thorough and transparent manner when completed.
In a media statement yesterday, BHP Billiton said Mr Houston was “a well-known and popular member” of the Saraji team.
“Allan began his career as an apprentice boilermaker at Blackwater Mine in approximately 1988 and since then, worked in the industry at various mines in Queensland,” the statement read.
“Allan’s father, Winston, had a long history in the Blackwater region and was a well-known and respected Dragline Operator for many years. Allan’s family is especially proud of his reputation as a highly skilled dozer and dragline operator.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to Allan’s loving mother, 23-year-old daughter, sister and brother as well as his friends and colleagues.”
BMA has established an account for donations to Allan’s family with Miners’ Promise, an independent not for profit organisation well-known for its support services to mineworkers and their families. Contributions can be made by anyone including employees, contractors and members of the community.
BMA will also automatically contribute on a 2:1 basis for any individual contributions made through the Miners’ Promise fund. Donations can be made electronically via the bank details below:
Account Name: Miners’ Promise Australia Ltd – Donations Trust
WESTPAC
BSB: 036-230
Account Number: 137314
Reference: Allan Houston Donations (If you are asked to type in a reference for the transfer)
*The BMA contribution will be automatic and does not require any action on the part of an individual contributor.
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