Ergon Energy has received a $300,000 fine in relation to a workplace fatality.

Cody Smith, a 25-year-old worker on a central Queensland pineapple farm was electrocuted in July 2021. The Rockhampton Magistrates Court has heard that Smith was electrocuted as he worked near a harvester passing under a power line on Lake Mary Pines farm near Yeppoon. 

Five other individuals also sustained electric shocks in the incident.

Magistrate Philippa Beckinsale, during sentencing, stated that the harvester, at a height of 4.3 metres, came into contact with or close proximity to a power line positioned at 4.52 metres. 

This tragic event was attributed to a broken stay wire on the power pole, which had corroded over time, causing the power line to drop from its typical height of 7.8 metres.

Beckinsale revealed that Ergon Energy had pleaded guilty to a charge of failing to comply with a Category 2 electrical safety duty, which exposed an individual to a risk of death or serious injury.

Numerous victim impact statements were presented in court, detailing the long-lasting effects on the individuals injured in the incident. 

Ian Page, one of the victims, recounted his experience of attempting to save Cody and the distress he now feels from the smell of cooking meat. 

Simone Ronchi expressed that his life would never be the same, struggling with nightmares and emotional pain whenever he recalls the incident. 

Raymond Sheriff described himself as a changed person, unable to find peace.

Ergon Energy, while not aware that the asset was unsafe, has taken measures to prevent such incidents in the future. 

In response, Beckinsale imposed a $300,000 fine on the company and ordered that no conviction be recorded, acknowledging the tragedy and the profound, enduring impact on Cody Smith's family.