UPDATE: An investigation has been launched by Bengalla Mining Company following a viral social media post featuring an unauthorized photo of two men at the Upper Hunter coal mine on February 21, 2026. The image, which has stirred significant online controversy, prompted immediate action from both the mine’s management and local law enforcement.
The incident occurred when two unauthorized individuals entered the main entrance of the Bengalla mine near Muswellbrook on a Saturday evening. A spokesperson for Bengalla Mining Company expressed disappointment over the misinformation circulating online, stating, “This was a minor incident where the men were politely asked to leave, which they did immediately.”
However, a breach of conduct occurred when the images were captured and shared by a company employee, leading to a serious internal review. The company is actively addressing the situation with its workforce and has reiterated the importance of adhering to their Code of Conduct.
In light of public interest, the Hunter Valley District Police confirmed on February 23 that they began investigating the matter after being alerted to the situation. An employee reported the presence of the two men, who complied with requests to exit the site. Notably, one of the individuals involved was identified as a former employee, who visited the site in hopes of reconnecting with former colleagues.
The social media uproar drew criticism from local officials, including Hunter Labor MP Dan Repacholi, who labeled the original post as “a racist dog whistle.” He emphasized the need for caution when sharing unverified claims, stating, “Police have confirmed there was no wrongdoing, and it shows why people need to verify claims before spreading them online.”
As the investigation unfolds, Barnaby Joyce, the New England MP and current One Nation member, has been approached for comment. The situation has highlighted the potential repercussions of misinformation and the importance of responsible social media usage.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities and Bengalla Mining Company work to clarify the facts surrounding this incident.
