Todd Russell, rescued after 13 days underground, dies aged 54

Todd Russell, who survived the 2006 Beaconsfield Mine disaster after being trapped underground for 13 days, has died aged 54. He died at home on Monday night, surrounded by family and friends, more than a year after being diagnosed with leukaemia. His death recalls a rescue that drew national attention and marks the end of a prolonged illness.

Russell spent eight and a half months at Launceston General Hospital, but shortly before his death said doctors had no further treatments to offer. He described years of pain, appointments, treatments and setbacks, and said he wanted to spend his remaining time at home with loved ones. His son Trent said Russell had fought an uphill battle and that his final moments were on his own terms.