Inside out with… Darcy Ericsson

Life on a mine site is like no other. The people you work with are more than just colleagues, they are your friends and family. They have your back, and you have theirs. Every day you work hard to make sure the other gets home safely at the end of your shift. 

We’re fortunate to have so many incredible people working on site at Oaky Creek Coal (OCC) and we want to get to know them “Inside Out”…

Name: Darcy Ericsson

How long have you been with Glencore and Oaky Creek?

7 years.

What’s your current role?

Development production operator.

What are you responsible for?

I am responsible for the extraction of coal, prioritising safety for myself and my coworkers. (Also providing laughs along the way!)

What does a typical day look like for you? 

I wake up and spend time with my family, throw the ball for the dogs or do some admin before heading to work with my crew mates to then attend pre-start before heading underground.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The crew mates and the camaraderie. 

What’s the most challenging part?

The harsh conditions underground, more specifically the heat and humidity. 

Have you always worked in the mining industry? 

No – I completed my plumbing trade on the Sunshine Coast before transitioning to mining. 

What attracted you to the mining industry, Glencore and OCC/Tieri?

The 7/7 roster was a big drawcard. 

If you weren’t working as a Development Production Operator, what would be your ideal job?

My dream job is to be a test rider for new motocross bikes. 

What do you like to do outside of work?

I like to ride bikes with my kids, play golf, run our dogs behind the bikes, watch super cross and mow my lawn. 

Who do you spend your time with?

Family, our Tieri great friends we’ve made and my coworkers.

What’s a little known fact about you?

In 2024 I started up a business using my plumbing trade – E.B Plumbing Company. We’ve been working hard to bring this vision to life and are thankful to everyone who has supported us along the way by either providing us with working opportunities or offering help and guidance when needed. Our vision could not have come to light without the opportunities that Tieri has offered us. We love this small community and the people we have met here and are excited to extend our business services in the coming year of 2026. 

What movie have you watched and rewatched the most…and why?

“The Grinch” as my partner insists on watching it daily during the months of November through to end of December. 

What song will you always turn up louder?

“Goodbye Horses” by Q Lazzarus. 

Favourite quote? 

“It’s never been easier to be successful, it’s also never been easier
to be distracted.”