Family salutes ‘ caring father’
A TOWNSVILLE man killed in a freak accident by a falling tree has been remembered as a devoted father.
James Barrett, 50, died on Saturday morning when a tree he was cutting down fell on him at a Duggan Drive property at Alligator Creek.
The father of two’s wife witnessed the tragedy while friends and neighbours tried to perform CPR.
In a statement yesterday, Mr Barrett’s family said he would be fondly remembered by his family, friends and colleagues and especially by his wife and two daughters, aged nine and 12.
“He always made it a priority to help others and was warm, gentle, caring and funny,” the statement read.
“Recently he was an avid champion for the Golden Octopus Foundation.
“His work and interests enabled him to touch the lives of many people in the Townsville community, his kind heart and friendly nature made him liked by all who met him.
“He would have greatly appreciated the community rallying around to support his family the way they have this time.”
Mr Barrett was born and raised in Townsville and earned at Bachelor of Commerce with James Cook University in 1998.
He worked as a chartered accountant for more than 25 years in private practice.
Mr Barrett was in the process of establishing his own business to be able to spend more time with his family.
District Duty Officer Senior Sergeant Matt Lyons said the tree was estimated to be more than 20m tall.
“Investigations are continuing, however it appeared to be a very tragic accident,” he said.
“It’s a tight- knit community down there and there was a lot of family and friends nearby.
“The community is in a state of shock and it’s certainly a tragedy for everybody.”
Police are investigating the incident but are treating the Mr Barrett’s death as an accident. at