Messages flow for beloved truck driver following a shock workplace accident
A Dandenong truckie who was killed in a shocking workplace accident has been remembered for his kindness to friends and family.
South East
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A popular truckie has been remembered as a “mentor and friend to many” after he was killed in a shocking workplace accident.
Stuart Baker, 59, was crushed by a falling gate at Dandenong South truck depot on Saturday, April 23.
The Dandenong man had been at Membrey’s Transport and Crane Hire for 30 years, leaving behind a reputation for kindness among staff, customers, friends and family.
Long-time friend and colleague Craig Membrey, said he was shocked to lose his mater of 30 years.
“It is a long, long time and it’s a horrible feeling. It’s a numb feeling,” Mr Membrey said.
“I must have loved the guy … you can’t fake feelings like that.”
“After over 30 years, I’ve only got one photo of him. We can never take enough photos in life, you never know when you’ll need them to look back on.”
Mr Membrey had an endless amount kind words to say about Mr Baker.
“He was a very loyal person and a great mentor,” he said
“He loved trucking, but his pride and joy really was his children. He was really proud of the three of them, and everything they’ve achieved in life.”
Tributes on social media reflected the sentiments Mr Membrey expressed, with comments and messages for Mr Baker and his family numbering in the hundreds, all describing a wonderful man would be terribly missed.
“Absolute tragedy to hear of Stueys passing, he was an absolute rippa of a bloke, sincere condolences to his family,” Perry Stewart said.
“Such a tragedy, no words can be said for the pain in our heart, on the loss of a beautiful man,” Jackie Higgins said.
A Work Safe representative said the incident was being investigated.
Mr Baker’s death is the 13th workplace death for 2022, which is six fewer than at the same time last year.