Farm charged after fatal skid steer loader crush

The 38-year-old worker was performing maintenance works on a skid steer loader when he became trapped between its bucket attachment and cabin, causing fatal crush injuries.

Ascot Park Farm Holding Company Pty Ltd faces two charges under section 21(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of failing to provide or maintain a safe working environment.

WorkSafe alleges the company breached section 21(2)(a) of the OHS Act by failing to provide or maintain safe plant, after it failed to have the skid steer loader inspected and its safety bar interlock system repaired by a qualified person before it was operated.

It is further alleged the company breached regulation 98(2) of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations by failing to reduce the risk of serious injury or death by using engineering controls, such as a properly functioning safety bar interlock system.

The matter is listed for a filing hearing at Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on 14 July 2025.