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Introduction
Two serious incidents involving falling hay bales in southern Queensland have prompted Farmsafe Australia to issue an urgent safety warning to producers across the state.
The incidents — occurring within days of each other — resulted in one fatality and one serious injury, shaking regional communities and highlighting the dangers of routine farming tasks.
Details of the Incidents
Roma Saleyards — Fatal Incident
A woman in her 40s was killed last Wednesday after a hay bale fell at the Roma Saleyards, around 350 kilometres north-west of Toowoomba.
Police will prepare a report for the coroner, and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatality.
Dunmore Property — Serious Injury
On Sunday morning, a man in his 40s was struck by a falling hay bale while working at a property in Dunmore.
He was treated at the scene and airlifted by LifeFlight to Toowoomba Hospital, where he remains in a serious but stable condition.
WHSQ has confirmed it is also investigating this incident.
Farmsafe Australia described both cases as “tragic” reminders of the risks associated with handling heavy agricultural materials.
Safety Concerns and Industry Response
Hay bales can weigh up to 600 kilograms, making them extremely dangerous when improperly stacked, transported, or manoeuvred.
Farmsafe Australia Chair Felicity Richards emphasised the unpredictable nature of bale movement:
“We need to be thoughtful about the weight of the bales that we’re handling and their ability to tip and fall unexpectedly.”
She warned that even routine tasks can turn hazardous when bales are stored at height or in large quantities.
AgForce Queensland President Shane McCarthy echoed the concerns, urging producers to avoid complacency:
- Ensure bales are not stacked too high
- Maintain safe speeds when transporting loads
- Remain aware of overhead hazards and the surrounding environment
“We work in a high-risk industry, even if it doesn’t feel like it because these are everyday tasks,” McCarthy said.
Farm Fatality Context
Farmsafe Australia reports 45 farm-related deaths nationwide this year, with the most common causes involving:
- Side-by-side vehicles
- Quad bikes
- Tractors
Ms Richards said the sector must continue prioritising proactive safety measures, noting a growing movement to treat near-misses as critical warning signs requiring procedural improvements.
As the festive season approaches, McCarthy urged producers to slow down and take extra precautions:
“We want as many people as possible to be able to enjoy Christmas with their loved ones. Take that little bit of extra time and caution.”