Calls for tree felling regulation after man crushed at Buddhist monastery

A Tasmanian coroner has called for stricter regulations on private tree felling activities following the 2023 death of a 63-year-old retired nurse at a Buddhist monastery in rural Tasmania. The incident, which the coroner deemed avoidable, occurred when the man was cutting down an 18-metre black wattle tree. Despite wearing protective gear, he was crushed when the tree fell unpredictably, crushing him beneath its weight.

Coroner Leigh Mackey's investigation revealed that the lack of training and accreditation for private chainsaw users was a contributing factor. Despite a series of recommendations made in 2017 for training and accreditation, none have been implemented over the past nine years. The coroner emphasized that only those with specific training and expertise in tree felling should undertake the task, as it is inherently dangerous and unpredictable.

The property owner, a Buddhist monastery, reported that LO was a cautious and meticulous planner with extensive experience operating a chainsaw on his own property. However, despite his expertise, he failed to clear the tree as it fell, resulting in his death. The coroner found that weather and environmental conditions did not contribute to the accident.

In her report, Coroner Mackey recommended that the Tasmanian government investigate and implement regulations for private tree felling activities, particularly focusing on mandatory training. She also suggested increasing public awareness of the dangers associated with tree felling by those without specialized training. A government spokesperson expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and emphasized that every avoidable death is a tragedy, noting that significant resources are in place to educate Tasmanians on the safe use of chainsaws in both workplace and private settings.