STATEMENT - WORKPLACE DEATH AT TARPEENA

I was immediately struck by the tragic news this morning that a member of our community had lost their life while at work at the Tarpeena Timber Mill.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends, work mates and indeed the broader, close-knit community of Mount Gambier, Tarpeena and surrounds. 

I painfully understand first-hand the impact that a workplace death has on a family and my thoughts are unavoidably with those grappling to come to terms with this tragedy today.

Every parent, sibling, spouse, son or daughter should expect to see their loved one again as they leave for work.

I have no doubt, knowing our community, that friends and family will rally around to support those most acutely impacted by this loss. It is at times of great loss that communities like ours really come together to support each other.

Workplace deaths have a cascading psychological and social impact on family and community and I strongly encourage those affected to reach out to the professional mental health services that are available.

• Head to Health, Walk-ins welcome to 7/165 Commercial St E, Mount Gambier
• Lifeline, Call 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14​
• Griefline 1300 845 745