Tasmanian coroner urges stricter rules for private tree-felling after fatal accident
A Tasmanian coroner has called for tighter controls on private tree-cutting after a 63-year-old retired nurse was crushed while felling a tree at a Buddhist monastery.
In a recent inquest, Coroner Leigh Mackey determined that the accidental death of a 63-year-old retired nurse, identified only as LO, could have been avoided with proper training. LO was cutting an 18-metre twisted black wattle tree at a Buddhist monastery in Tasmania's Great Western Tiers when the tree fell unexpectedly, striking him on the back. Although he wore protective gear, he was unable to move out of the way in time.
Mackey referenced a 2017 coronial report that recommended training and accreditation for private chainsaw operators, noting that none of those suggestions have been adopted in nine years. She recommended that the Tasmanian government investigate and implement regulations for private tree-felling and increase public awareness of the risks. The state government has been contacted for comment.
Why it matters
The case highlights a gap in safety regulation for private tree-felling, prompting calls for mandatory training to prevent similar accidents.
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