VIC farmer killed in incident involving tractor

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VIC Farmer Killed in Incident Involving Tractor

A fruit farmer has died after being fatally crushed in a fall from a tractor while operating it on steep slopes south of Melbourne, Victoria. This tragic death of an elderly orchardist highlights ongoing safety concerns surrounding tractor-related incidents on Australian farms.

What Happened at Red Hill

Incident occurred on Tuesday at a farm in Red Hill, Victoria. An 84-year-old man was reportedly spraying an orchard using a 3.5-ton trailer sprayer when he lost control of the tractor on a downhill slope.

Reports indicate the farmer was fatally injured after falling from the vehicle. WorkSafe has confirmed involvement in reviewing circumstances surrounding this fatality, as steep terrain combined with heavy machinery continues posing serious risks for those being run off course on sloped ground.

WorkSafe Victoria Investigation Underway

WorkSafe Victoria will investigate the incident to determine contributing factors and whether existing farm safety measures were adequate for tasks conducted on inclined terrain. Agricultural safety experts note that tractor operation on slopes remains a leading cause of fatal farm injuries nationwide.

For operators managing similar equipment, reviewing a Tractor Operation SWMS can support safer practices when working on challenging landscapes.

Recurring Pattern of Farm Safety Incidents

This latest death follows several other tractor-related incidents recorded across the state in recent years. Similar cases include a farmer killed by tractor in Northern Victoria and a separate case where a Victorian farmer died in a quad bike incident.

Farm equipment fatalities aren't limited to tractors alone — a Victorian farmworker was also killed in a baler incident, underscoring broader machinery safety concerns across agricultural operations statewide.

Strengthening Safety on Farms

Ensuring safety during agricultural operations requires robust systems for identifying hazards before they result in harm. Effective incident reporting processes help businesses track patterns, address risks proactively, and prevent repeat tragedies.

Businesses operating machinery like tractors should consider implementing:

• Comprehensive safety training for all equipment operators, particularly those working on sloped or uneven terrain
• Clear procedures outlined in an Incident Reporting Policy to ensure timely documentation of near misses and incidents
• Regular risk assessments for tasks involving heavy trailer-mounted equipment such as sprayers
• Ongoing use of an Incident & Hazard Reporting Module tailored for Victorian workplace requirements

Farm operators can also benefit from broader incident management resources designed to strengthen workplace safety systems and support compliance with reporting obligations.

Why Farm Safety Matters

Agriculture remains among the highest-risk industries in Australia, with tractor rollovers and falls consistently contributing to serious injuries and fatalities each year. Prioritising safety on farms, particularly during high-risk tasks on steep or unstable ground, protects workers and preserves livelihoods.

WorkSafe continues urging farm owners and operators to review safety protocols regularly, ensuring machinery use aligns with manufacturer guidelines and terrain-specific risk controls.

Source: WorkSafe Victoria website.

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