Farmer Killed in Beech Forest Tractor Incident

Another Victorian farmworker has lost their life in a machinery incident, and safety systems will be closely examined.

I recall inspecting the agricultural space and having to work with the "old-school" mentality that came with it. It was always a pleasure to level with our primary producers and point them in the right direction. Too many of our farmers are dying at the hands of their machinery.

Too many of our farmers are dying on the job.

WorkSafe Victoria confirmed a 64‑year‑old man died after being struck by a tractor while baling hay at a Beech Forest property on Saturday night and was found with severe leg and pelvic injuries. Investigators arrived at the scene to assess the need for additional action. This is Victoria’s second confirmed workplace fatality in 2026, and it mirrors the same number of work-related deaths at the same time last year.

WorkSafe has asked parties to preserve the scene and provide evidence as part of the investigation. Machinery incidents in the agriculture sector remain a persistent risk, with previous tractor‑related fatalities reported in late 2025 and early 2026 highlighting ongoing hazards inherent in farm work.

For agribusiness and transport clients, this serves as a stark reminder that plant guarding, maintenance records, operator competency and controls for workers operating alone are areas of focus for inspectors following serious incidents.

My heart goes out to the loved ones touched by this workplace tragedy.