Calendar competition promotes farm safety at grassroots

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace today launched the State Government’s annual farm safety calendar competition for school kids at Woongarra State School with the State Member for Bundaberg Leanne Donaldson. 

“We’d like kids to draw pictures about health and safety topics on farms and enter their masterpieces in the 2017 farm safety calendar competition,” Ms Grace said. 

“Tragically around 20 children are killed on Australian farms every year, with many more hospitalised. 

“That’s why the Palaszczuk Government is actively promoting safety on rural properties with a strong focus on educating school kids.

“In 2016, there were 498 entries from 43 schools across the state. This year, I’m hoping we break the 500 entry barrier and get even more schools involved in what’s an important project about safety for those who live on the land. 

“Twelve winning entries will be published in the 2018 edition of the farm safety calendar, with each winner getting a $250 voucher and their school getting a $500 voucher.” 

Member for Bundaberg Leanne Donaldson is encouraging students in the Bundaberg region to get involved in the farm safety calendar competition. 

“There are great cash prizes on offer this competition but it’s also a chance to spread the farm safety message far and wide,” Ms Donaldson said. 

“Unfortunately a lot of injuries happen on farms, so the calendar competition is a fun and informative way to show our future farmers that these mishaps can be prevented with a little extra care and planning. 

“And for those who hang one proudly in their homes or workplaces, the calendars are a year-long reminder to be farm safe.” 

Kids entering the competition should pick one from this list of the most common farm safety hazards then use their artistic talents to illustrate how to be safe around the hazard. 

Quad bikes, motorbikes and machinery

o   Look out for machinery and vehicles as the driver may not see you.

o   Be safe when riding a quad bike or motorbike. Ride ready – wear a helmet, never double and kids only use a kid-sized bike.

o   Look up and live – powerlines and machinery don’t mix.

Animal handling

o   Animals can give diseases to people. Always wash your hands after being near them.

o   Stock animals can be unpredictable. Watch their behaviour, and don't stand behind them.

o   Horses have the strength, speed and ability to cause an injury. Only ride horses that match your experience.

Sun safety and healthy lifestyle

o   Lead a healthy lifestyle by eating properly, exercising and getting plenty of sleep.

o   Take frequent rest breaks and drink lots of water when working outside.

o   Protect yourself from the sun. Always wear a hat, long sleeves and sunscreen.

Kids on farms

o   Swimming in farm dams and rivers is fun, but always have an adult present to supervise.

o   A fenced yard for young kids and toddlers to play in will keep them away from many farm dangers.

o   Make sure an adult always knows where you’re going and what you’ll be doing on the farm.

Entries in the 2017 farm safety calendar competition must be lodged online by 16 June, with the winners announced in September. 

To find out how to enter the competition and have a look at previous winning entries, visit worksafe.qld.gov.au or call 1300 362 128. 

Media contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548