Man killed after excavator plunges 300m into gully

A man killed when the excavator he was driving plunged 300m into a gully has been identified as a popular former athlete.

The accident happened at Undullah on Wednesday about 5.30pm. (File picture)

A man killed when the excavator he was operating rolled and fell 300m down a gully at a farm southwest of Brisbane has been identified as father-of-two Murray “Muzz” Bell, 46.

It is understood Mr Bell owned and operated City Country Earthworx.

Ipswich Little Athletics wrote on social media that “Murray was an ex-Ipswich athlete and son of life member Ann Bell”.

“Muzz, as he was affectionately known, was sadly taken from us on Wednesday evening in a work accident at age 46, leaving behind wife Kaylene and two beautiful children,” the post read.

“Our deepest sympathies and love go out to Murray’s entire family at this difficult time.”

Meanwhile, a family member wrote: “We are absolutely beyond devastated.”

The accident happened in the rural suburb of Undullah about 5.30pm on Wednesday.

Onlookers reported that an excavator driven by a man in his 40s had left Undullah Rd and fallen down a large embankment to the ground below.

It is understood the man was doing contract work on a job site at a farm.

Queensland police on Wednesday night confirmed one man had been killed in the accident.

It is understood the man was ejected from the excavator after it rolled, falling another 100m away from the machinery.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services reported difficulty accessing the area due to rough terrain and limited phone service.

Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics also attended.

It is understood the decision was made on Wednesday night that it was too dangerous for rescuers to attempt to retrieve the body in the dark.

Police and QFES remained on site until late Thursday to retrieve Mr Bell’s body.

Police investigations were continuing.