2018 Bulli disaster memorial service

The Bulli Mine Disaster Memorial, Park Road Bulli.

A TERRIFIC explosion was heard above Bulli School – from the Old Bulli Mine – 131 years ago this Friday, which took the lives of 81 men and boys – there was only survivor, Herbert Cope.

The Bulli Mine Disaster, as it became known, remains the second worst industrial accident in Australia’s history – only surpassed by the Mt Kembla explosion 15 years later.

This Friday, March 23, the Black Diamond Heritage Centre will host the the annual commemoration service of the tragedy at St Augustines Anglican Church, Park Road, Bulli from 1.30. A wreath laying ceremony will follow at the memorial plinth near the grave yard where many of the victims were laid to rest.

Black Diamond Heritage Centre spokesperson Kerrie Anne Christian said the commemoration will include an address by Dan Meehan, a descendant of one of the victims William Williams.

“We have invited descendants and relatives of the victims, along with members of the local community, to join with us in remembering this terrible event that so badly impacted the small village of Bulli in 1887,” Kerrie said.

“The majority of victims were buried at the old St Augustine’s graveyard. Some gravestones can still be seen to the rear of the church – however some victims were unable to be identified. It is a tragedy that never should be forgotten and it is a reminder of the importance of workers’ safety.”