A father-of-three who died in a workplace tragedy this week has been remembered as ‘a wonderful man’ by his deeply shocked family and friends.
Lachlan Francis died in an incident involving agricultural machinery at a Bundaberg Sugar cane farm near Childers, Queensland, about 8.10pm on Tuesday.
His death, which is being investigated by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ), has traumatized his loved ones and the local community.
“My beautiful brother was an amazing man, there wasn’t a moment when he didn’t make us all laugh,” said his sister Britt Francis.
‘He was the most wonderful father to his three children. The best son and brother we could ever have asked for.”
Lachlan Francis (right) died in an incident involving agricultural machinery at a Bundaberg Sugar cane farm, near Childers, Queensland, about 8.10pm on Tuesday. Mr Francis is pictured with his brother Jack Francis and friend Clay Rees
Mr Francis was particularly close to his brother Jack, while their sister said they were ‘joined at the hip’.
Clay Rees said Mr Francis was a wonderful and very good friend.
“If I was stuck in a situation, he would be the first person I would call,” he said.
“He would do anything for me, just like I would do for him. Rest in peace, buddy. Until we meet again.’
Another brother and sister of Mr Francis, Drew, said: “Lachlan was a hard-working family man, brother, father and partner.
‘He was my best friend, closer than a friend. He left his mark on this world, and none of us will ever forget that.”
Bundaberg Sugar expressed its sadness at the tragedy.
“This employee was a valued member of the Bundaberg Sugar team and our sincere thoughts and condolences go out to the family, friends and community,” a spokesperson told the Courier mail.
‘Our focus is on the employee’s family and ensuring they are well supported at this incredibly difficult time.
“We will ensure that this support extends to our employees who were directly involved in the incident.
“We are taking steps to understand what happened and are working closely with the relevant authorities.”
Queensland Police are preparing a report for the coroner.
Clay Rees, Jack Francis, Mitch Zunker and Code Mciver are pictured having a drink in memory of Lachlan Francis
Since 2001, 1,705 people have lost their lives on Australian farms due to non-intentional injuries, a report from FarmSafe Australia has found.
More than 60 percent of deaths were caused by agricultural vehicles or mobile agricultural machinery.
Tractors were involved in 20 percent of deaths, and quad bikes were responsible for 14 percent.
More than 90 percent of the dead were men, and more than 73 percent were over 45 years old.