Kalidonis NT Pleads Not Guilty to Charges Over Worker’s Death in Maningrida

Incident Overview

On Friday, 20 March 2020, Paul Leach, a construction worker, was fatally injured at a remote work site approximately 500 kilometres east of Darwin in Maningrida when a chain used to tow a bogged excavator snapped and recoiled, striking him in the head.

Darwin-based construction company Kalidonis NT Pty Ltd was notified to NT WorkSafe and subsequently charged with failing to comply with health and safety duties. The company has entered a not guilty plea in Darwin Local Court.

• Fatalities:
  • On Friday, 20 March 2020, Paul Leach, a construction worker, was fatally injured at a remote work site approximately 500 kilometres east of Darwin in Maningrida when a chain used to tow a bogged excavator snapped and recoiled, striking him in the head
  • Deceased Worker:
• Injuries:
  • None reported.

• On Friday, 20 March 2020, Paul Leach, a construction worker, was fatally injured at a remote work site approximately 500 kilometres east of Darwin in Maningrida when a chain used to tow a bogged excavator snapped and recoiled, striking him in the head
• Deceased Worker:

Darwin-based construction company Kalidonis NT Pty Ltd was notified to NT WorkSafe and subsequently charged with failing to comply with health and safety duties. The company has entered a not guilty plea in Darwin Local Court.

NT WorkSafe investigated the incident. Kalidonis NT was initially charged with industrial manslaughter; this charge was later withdrawn and replaced with two charges of failing to comply with health and safety duties under NT WorkSafe regulations. The case is currently before Darwin Local Court, with the hearing scheduled to resume on 23 August 2026 for further evidence and testimonies.

Court testimonies revealed that Mr. Leach had previously engaged in unauthorised machinery operations despite explicit instructions against such actions. Kalidonis NT’s defence argues that Mr. Leach’s non-compliance with safety protocols led to the incident, noting the company had taken corrective actions including dismissal and subsequent rehiring. NT WorkSafe contends that Kalidonis NT failed to ensure adequate employee safety oversight and emergency response strategies, asserting the company bears ultimate responsibility for maintaining safety standards on site.

NT WorkSafe is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Leach’s death. Any workers, contractors or persons with relevant information about the incident or workplace safety practices at the Maningrida site are encouraged to contact NT WorkSafe on 1800 019 115 or via the online incident-report form.