Spotlight on farm safety at Glen Innes

The importance of farm safety will be highlighted at special information and health day to be held at Glen Innes on 26 April.

 NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) Rural Support Worker Jenny Croft said the Department has collaborated with the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) and the NSW Farmers Association to hold the event to put the spotlight on farm safety. 

“Farm safety is something we don’t hear much about even though there are many  incidents occurring on farms that lead to horrific injuries and often, death,” she said. 

“For instance, there have been more than 140 quad bike related deaths in the past decade, so we have arranged for John Temperley from the Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety attend and discuss this important issue. 

“John will also have some advice on setting up safe play areas for children. 

“A representative of the Workcover Authority of NSW will speak about occupational health and safety (OHS) regulation and Mick Kerr from Essential Energy will discuss the causes of accidents. 

“Livestock Health and Pest Authority (LHPA) veterinarian Andrew Biddle will explain zoonoses diseases, which are animal diseases that can also affect humans, such as Hendra and some strains of avian influenza. 

“Farmlink representative Meg Perceval will speak about the importance of maintaining your health and wellbeing.” 

The great line-up of speakers at the Glen Innes Farm Safety and Information Day would ensure a highly informative day, according to RAMHP project officer, Sarah Green. 

“This is a great opportunity to learn how to work and play more safely,” Ms Green said. 

“In today’s world we have more to do and less time to do it in, and as a result, sometimes we are not as careful as we could be.” 

The Farm Safety Information and Health Day will be held at the New England Club Glen Innes from 9.30am on Thursday 26 April. There is no cost and lunch will be provided. 

For more information and to RSVP, contact Jenny Croft on 0429 446 417, jenny.croft@dpi.nsw.gov.au, or Sarah Green on 0428 109 990, Sarah.Green@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au 

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