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Introduction
An unfortunate tractor accident in Red Hill, on the Mornington Peninsula, has led to the death of an 84-year-old farmer, marking a somber moment for the Victorian agricultural community.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred while the farmer was operating a tractor to spray an orchard with a trailer sprayer attached. The equipment, weighing approximately 3.5 tonnes, proved challenging to manage on the steep terrain of the farm. Tragically, the farmer lost control of the tractor and fell from the vehicle.
Response and Investigation
Emergency services were called to the scene, but despite their efforts, the farmer was pronounced dead at the location. WorkSafe Victoria has initiated an investigation to determine the precise circumstances leading up to the accident. This incident has been recorded as the 30th workplace fatality in the state for the year 2024, and the sixth within the agriculture sector.
Safety Measures and Future Precautions
This event underscores the critical need for stringent safety measures and training for handling heavy farming equipment, especially in challenging environments. WorkSafe Victoria is likely to review and potentially enhance safety protocols to prevent such tragedies in the future.