In this week’s episode, podcast host Kerry Lonergan catches up with Felicity Richards, Chair of FarmSafe Australia, about workplace safety in the bush – recent on‑farm fatality and injury statistics, leading causes (quad bikes, side‑by‑sides and tractors), and common contributing factors such as lack of helmets/seatbelts, speed, and unsafe mounting/dismounting.

In the lead up to Farm Safety Week, the conversation covers vulnerable groups (older farmers and young children near water), the role of fatigue and mental health, and prevention strategies including protective gear, operator protection devices, safe procedures and better inductions. Felicity highlights FarmSafe campaigns like “Second Chance” and the new “Set the Standard.”

Listeners are urged to share safety stories, use available toolbox resources, and visit farmsafe.org to find Farm Safety Week events and practical tools to protect families and workers.

Farm Safety Week takes place this year from 16 to 25 July.