Category two – Best individual contribution to work health and safety
Ashley Rieck leads by example and is a strong and respected safety advocate for his young crew at the family owned agribusiness. The productive 2000 hectare farm in the Wide Bay region produces sweet potatoes, watermelons and sugar cane.
Ashley uses his passion and positive energy to overcome the traditional barriers in the agriculture industry and has been instrumental in implementing initiatives that manage health and wellbeing, young workers and contractors.
Amongst his greatest achievements has been implementing the 'Greenshoots' program for young workers. The program helps supervisors identify and address the unique risks posed by young workers, including high risk taking. For the young workers, they have the opportunity to meet and speak with senior company management to voice safety concerns and ideas.
He has championed a holistic approach to safety and brings a diverse range of programs to the staff including alcohol and drug education programs, fatigue management training, mental health support, suicide prevention and managing whole body vibration.
Ashley's dedication and leadership has had an immeasurable impact on the safety culture at Greensill Farming. He is a role model for workers in the organisation who respect his genuine, passionate approach.
