Getting safety right on dairy farms was essential because a serious accident or death could destroy a farm family, western Victorian dairyfarmer Anne McGrath told the Dairy Innovators Forum on the Sunshine Coast today.
Anne shared the emotional story of her family's journey to hell and back with the death of a young worker on their farm in 2007.
She said they could still feel the heat from hell's flames with the family facing further legal action as a result of the case.
Anne said the 18-year-old worker was killed in a quad bike accident and his girlfriend seriously injured after they were struck by a truck crossing a road that went through their farm.
She said Worksafe investigtors had relentlessly questioned the family in the weeks after the accident without any consideration that they too were grieving the loss of the young man who was a friend as well as an employee.
The family moved out of dairying after the accident, selling the dairy farm in part to pay the fines imposed on them.
She warned farmers who faced that situation to ensure they picked their solicitor well as they "get very cosy with your money".
Anne also said that people should ensure that they cover off on their occupational health and safety requirements and double check everything.
The McGrath family has moved back into the industry but this time in an operation that involves only family members.
Anne also told the forum that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer last October - another blow after a difficult four years.
But she said it was important for people to laugh and enjoy themselves even in the face of adversity.
She shared with the forum footage of her after a horse she trained - Tears I Cry - won the Emirates Stakes in 2007.
Anne promised everyone they would get a good laugh from it - which they did.