Two trapped Tasmanian miners have each been given an Apple iPod to help pass the time as rescuers launch a new bid to free them.

The two men have been stuck in Beasconsfield Gold mine for over a week now after a rock fall, which killed one of their fellow miners.

Brant Webb and Todd Russell were found alive on Sunday evening and were then given food, water, clothes and blankets.

Now the pair have each been given an iPod to while away the hours as rescuers start drilling to access them.

Beaconsfield Gold Mine manager, Matthew Gill, told the Australian Daily Telegraph: “They remain in good health and have now received iPods so they can listen to their favourite music.”

He added that one of the men requested country rock.

Reports indicate the pair have also been given a small digital camera, which they have used to show rescue teams the area they are trapped in.

The final stage of the rescue attempt is expected to take 48 hours, with both men said to be in good spirits having received notes and letters from their families.

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