Childers, Bundaberg: Man killed in farming accident

A workplace watchdog has confirmed it is investigating the death of a man on a sugar cane farm as Bundaberg Sugar shares a tribute to its ‘valued’ worker.

A man has been killed in a tragic farming accident in the Bundaberg region.

A workplace watchdog has confirmed an investigation has begun into the death of a man in a farming machinery incident in the Bundaberg region.

The business behind the farm, Bundaberg Sugar, has also shared a tribute about its “valued” worker and devastated residents have expressed their grief.

Police said the incident happened near Childers about 8.10pm on Tuesday.

The man, in his 30s, was assessed for critical injuries on the sugar cane farm owned by Bundaberg Sugar, on Alfs Road near Childers.

The dirt road intersecting with Childers Rd is framed on one side by sugarcane and marked by a company sign.

Cane train carriages are stacked by the roadside.

A Bundaberg Sugar spokesperson said the business was “deeply saddened” about the cane cultivation employee’s death.

A man tragically died on Alfs Rd, near Childers, in a machinery incident.

“This employee was a valued member of the Bundaberg Sugar team and our heartfelt thoughts and condolences go to the family, friends and community,” they said.

“Our focus is on the employee’s family and ensuring they are well supported at this incredibly difficult time.

Cane train carriages by the roadside at the intersection of Alfs Rd and Childers Rd.

“We will also ensure this support extends to our employees who were directly involved in the incident.

“We are taking steps to understand what has happened and are working closely with the relevant authorities and police have attended the scene.”

A Workplace Health and Safety spokeswoman said the regulator was investigating the incident.

“WHSQ inspectors have attended the incident scene and inquiries into the matter have commenced,” she said.

“As this is a current investigation, no further comment can be provided at this time.”

Devastated residents also shared messages of condolence.

“So sad to hear condolences to the family,’’ one resident posted.

Canegrowers staff declined to comment at this time as they did not know any details of the incident.

Already there have been more than five deaths on Queensland farms this year.

According to a FarmSafe Australia report, since 2001, 1705 people have lost their life on Australian farms due to non-intentional injuries.

More than 60 per cent of deaths are attributed to farm vehicles or mobile farm machinery. Quad bikes were responsible for 14% of deaths, while tractors were involved in 20%. More than 90 per cent of deaths were men, and more than 73% were over 45 years old.

Police said they would prepare a report for the coroner after the non-suspicious death of a man at the property.