A man has died following a serious machinery incident at a cement site at the Port of Brisbane early this morning, sending shockwaves through the local industrial community and prompting an urgent workplace safety investigation.
Emergency services were called to Bulk Terminals Drive at approximately 6.20am after reports that a worker had suffered critical injuries when a bulldozer rolled at the worksite. Paramedics arrived to find the man in a life-threatening condition, but despite urgent efforts, he was declared dead at the scene.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services were also deployed, with firefighters working to stabilise the overturned bulldozer so recovery operations could safely take place. The heavy machinery was later seen propped up by a jack, highlighting the complexity and danger of the recovery effort.
Aerial footage from the scene showed the bulldozer appeared to have collided with another large piece of industrial equipment before rolling, although the exact sequence of events leading up to the tragedy remains unclear. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether mechanical failure, environmental conditions, or human factors played a role.
Police quickly established a cordon around the site as investigations began. Officers are now working closely with Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) to determine how the fatal incident occurred and whether any breaches of safety regulations may have been involved.
In a brief statement, a spokesperson for Workplace Health and Safety Queensland confirmed inspectors were actively examining the scene.
“WHSQ inspectors are onsite and inquiries into the incident are underway. As this is an active investigation, no further comment can be made at this time,” the spokesperson said.
A formal report will be prepared for the coroner, who will ultimately determine the cause of death. The victim’s identity has not yet been released, as authorities work to notify next of kin.
The fatality has renewed concerns about safety risks in heavy industrial environments, particularly those involving large machinery operating in close proximity. Workplace deaths remain a serious issue across Australia, with unions and safety advocates repeatedly calling for stricter enforcement of safety standards and improved protections for workers in high-risk industries.
Operations at the affected section of the Port of Brisbane were disrupted as investigations continued throughout the morning. It remains unclear when normal work will resume at the site.
This incident comes amid a broader focus on workplace safety across Queensland, with regulators urging employers to ensure machinery is properly maintained and that workers are adequately trained and supported on site.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators has been urged to come forward as inquiries continue.
