Information was provided on dangers around farming, the use of protective equipment and TAFE safety training, how to best use the triple zero service and resources available from WorkCover.

The workshops were a joint initiative of the Upper Hunter Shire Council and the Scone Neighbourhood Centre through funding received for the Virtual Shed program.

Presentations on the safe use of chainsaws and angle grinders, and information about courses available through TAFE were provided by Mal Henderson. 

The importance of using personal protective equipment (PPE) was demonstrated with graphic photos of accidents which may have been avoided with use of PPE.

Paramedics were there to provide information about when to call triple zero and to explain the systems that are activated.

Paramedic Julie Cornall suggested people in isolated rural locations have directions to the property near the phone.

“If you have visitors to your property who are not familiar with the location, it could help them direct emergency services,” she said.

Workcover representatives Ruth Buggy and Valdis Leinasars spoke about employer and employee responsibilities such as the need to document all staff training and maintenance of plant and equipment.

Workcover also has a $500 rebate available to businesses with an ABN and participants at the workshops are able to apply for this incentive.

Mr Leinasars emphasised the importance of looking after yourself, both physically and mentally.

“Farming is dangerous,” he said, quoting statistics that 200 people die each year on Australian farms.

“Four people lose their lives each week in accidents and in addition, men are six times more likely than women to have a heart attack.”

These events follow on from Crime Prevention initiatives in Murrurundi and Cassilis last year. 

Council’s Community Services Committee and staff aim to offer workshops and community events in rural locations across the Upper Hunter Shire annually. 

Community members interested in joining council’s Community Services Committee can contact staff on 6540 1356 for more information.