Final call to join The University of Newcastle’s Coal Mines Weight Loss Trial

87% of the NSW coal mining workforce are currently overweight or obese.

The University of Newcastle’s (UoN) Coal Mines Weight Loss trial commenced in October 2023 to investigate the effectiveness of different weight loss methods for coal mine workers.

There are still places available, however recruitment is ending on 31 July 2024 so any interested workers are encouraged to sign up soon to avoid missing out on this great opportunity to access weight loss support.

About the trial:

Any Coal Mine worker with a BMI of 30 or above may be eligible to participate.

Participants who join the trial will be randomly allocated to one of three groups:

• Meal replacements (man/lady shakes)
• The Healthy Weight Initiative program; 12 sessions with an allied health professional
• ‘Usual care,’ which may include access to education and advice on available weight loss resources and services and a GP referral.

The trial is funded by a Coal Services Health & Safety Trust grant so participation is free of charge for coal mine workers.

Benefits for Participants:

Participating workers will have free access to weight loss interventions, potentially leading to weight loss and improved health outcomes.

Additionally, workers’ involvement will play a crucial role in contributing to research aimed at identifying the most effective weight loss strategies for NSW coal mine workers.

Join the Trial:

The UoN is actively seeking coal mine workers with a BMI of 30 or above to join the trial. Recruitment will continue until Wednesday, 31 July 2024 or until sufficient numbers are reached.

To join the trial or for further information, contact the UoN trial manager directly via email at [email protected] or by phone at 02 4042 0962.

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