The Case

WorkSafe Qld v Saratoga Holdings Pty Ltd

Saratoga Holdings Pty Ltd is one of the world’s largest macadamia producers.

Saratoga Holdings engaged a backpacker from the UK as a casual farmhand. On 27 August 2018, the farmhand was checking irrigation lines on a plantation when his quad bike collided with a tractor fitted with a 2.3-metre-long skirter being operated by another worker. The farmhand suffered a severe injury to his left arm, which resulted in the amputation of his forearm.

Following the incident, the WorkSafe investigation revealed further unreported work health and safety offences by the company.