07:12 pm, Tuesday 16 March, 2010

Magistrate Greg Borchers has fined an outback cattle firm $60,000 over the death of a worker in a transportation accident in 2007.

Under the laws, the company could have faced up to $650,000 in fines.

The 35-year-old Philippine-born worker was riding at the back of a ute at Wollogorang Station with two workmates when he fell off and died.

The family of the man in the Philippines told the court the incident has shattered their dreams of a better life.

The station’s owner pleaded guilty to failing to provide a safe workplace.

According to Magistrate Borchers, the dangerous practice was condoned by the company.

It has now made steps to make sure a similar accident will not happen in the future.

The court heard the cattle industry has traditionally been lax with workplace safety.

The Magistrate said it is not an excuse for allowing the risky practice.

Report by Julia Alder - Do you have an OHS News Story - Let us know