Trapped miners eat for first time in 6 days
Two men trapped in a Tasmanian mine have been given food and eaten for the first time in six days, after rescuers passed biscuits through a narrow tunnel.
However, they are still 12 metres from the pair.
After almost a week in a cramped, damp cage the men have received a high energy drink, biscuits and unspecified tablets, recommended by paramedics.
Mine manager Matthew Gill says it was passed through a tunnel 100 millimetres in diameter.
"The rescue has reached a very delicate stage, we have established permanent contact with the two men and they have received some food and fresh water and they do remain in good spirits," he said.
Rescuers are not blasting or drilling, but instead using a revolving circular tool to tunnel.
The men are not expected to be freed before Wednesday.
Mr Gill says they are considering alternatives to blasting to get the men out, and are examining a range of specialist equipment from around the state.
"The critical focus is to ensure that they have sufficient food to allow - given they have water as well - to continue to be where they are while we effect the safest possible means of getting them out safely, and not jeopardising the rescuers," he said.
Recording not heard
Meanwhile, the wife of one of the two miners trapped has been told her husband will not be allowed to hear a tape-recorded message she made for him.
A psychologist has decided it would be too distressing for trapped miner Brant Webb to hear the message recorded by his wife Rachel.
Australian Workers Union national organiser Paul Howes says he was with Ms Webb when she made the tape, and says the decision on whether it is played must rest with the psychologist.
"It hasn't been played because the psychologist didn't think it was the right thing to do," he said.
"I trust these peoples' judgement, they're talking to these people directly, and that's the most important thing.
"Rachel wanted to send a message, and I think it was a bit of therapy for herself as well, just putting something down on tape."
Funeral delayed
Meanwhile, Larry Knight will not be buried until his trapped co-workers are brought out.
Speaking on behalf of his family, local mayor Barry Eastford says the funeral will be delayed until his trapped co-workers can attend.
"They think that it's important that ... Larry's farewelled," he said.
Mine managers have said little publicly, but they briefed Tasmanian Premier Paul Lennon.
"They are providing valuable intelligence, it's now to the rescue effort team," he said.