Give a quad safety present

The Victorian Farmer’s Federation is encouraging primary producers to give the gift of farm safety this holiday season by investing in protection devices to limit the risk of quad bike injuries on farms.

The VFF is offering rebates of up to $600 (GST exempt) on two eligible

protection devices – the Quadbar and the ATV Lifeguard – as well as a $1200 (GST exempt) rebate on alternate vehicles in a $6 million state government initiative to curb farm accidents.

Statistics released by WorkSafe Victoria reveal most workplace accidents occur in the lead-up to Christmas, with 25 per cent of all incidents occurring in November and December.

Even more worryingly, WorkSafe also records that almost 30 per cent of all workplace deaths in the state occur on farms despite the fact agriculture employs just three per cent of Victorian workers.

“Christmas is a busy time for farmers harvesting, but it can also be a deadly time of year if the work is put ahead of safety,” VFF Vice President Brett Hosking said.

“Quad bikes are an essential piece of equipment on our farms because they are so versatile, but with that versatility comes the increased risk of accidents, and we should all be doing what we can to make them safer or replace them with another vehicle.”

“It’s vital that you protect yourself, your family and your employees from the risks of using quad bikes.

The Quad Bike Safety Rebate Scheme is expected to deliver rebates to more than 5000 farmers over the next two years, and farmers are encouraged to make early applications so they don’t miss out.

Details on rebate criteria can be found at www.bequadsafe.com.au or by calling 1300 945 030.