Peter Hockey dies during first day at new job in Toowoomba, Qld

A father described as one of the most “free spirited and loving people” has died during his first day at a new job, leaving behind his fiancee and children.

A father has died in a lawnmower accident on his first day at a new job in Queensland.

Peter Hockey, 50, was working his first day as a groundskeeper at the Preston Peak Winery near Toowoomba when he hit a tree while operating a ride-on lawnmower about 2pm on Monday, according to the Toowoomba Chronicle.

Mr Hockey died despite emergency services rushing to the scene.

Preston Peak Winery owner Mark Osborne said Mr Hockey had only started working at the wedding venue on Monday.

“We feel absolutely dreadful that this has happened to the poor man,” Mr Osborne said, according to The Chronicle.

“It was just an incredibly sad thing.

“He started with us on Monday and was friends of a lot of the staff.”

Peter Hockey died during his first day as a groundskeeper at the Preston Peak Winery near Toowoomba. Picture: Facebook.

Tributes have flowed for Mr Hockey online, with many shocked by news of his death.

“He was one of the most beautiful men I’ve had the privilege of knowing and working with him. So sorry for his fiance and family left behind,” one wrote to Facebook.

“Peter was one of the kindest people we have ever met. His laugh and smile were contagious,” another commented.

“I am in shock. Pete it was honestly such a blessing to know you! Beautiful inside and out,” wrote another.

“He had such spirit and determination it was wonderful to see. He will be greatly missed, my thoughts and prayers are with his family,” another comment read.

Mr Hockey hit a tree while operating a ride-on lawnmower. Picture: Facebook.

A fundraiser was launched to help his family with funeral and other sudden costs, with Mr Hockey described as “one of the most genuine, generous, free spirited and loving people”.

“Unfortunately, Pete was in a tragic accident leaving his fiance Jazz, and his children behind,” the Go Fund Me page stated.

“If you feel it in your heart to donate, it would be greatly appreciated.”

A Queensland Police spokeswoman earlier said the death was non-suspicious.

“Police are assisting Workplace Health and Safety with their investigation,” the spokeswoman said.

A Workplace Health and Safety Queensland spokesperson said inquiries were being made into an incident that occurred on Monday afternoon at Preston near Toowoomba.

“As this is a current investigation, no further comment can be made at this time,” the spokesperson said.