The life of East Warburton man Phil Dickson was tragically taken last week at a Powelltown sawmill.By Melissa Meehan
EAST Warburton man Phil Dickson was farewelled by friends and family on Friday following what could only be described as a tragic accident.
Mr Dickson, 58, was crushed to death by a four metre high stack of timber at a Powelltown sawmill last week as he prepared to position another stack with a forklift.
He had been stacking timber for air-drying, and was found by someone from a neighbouring property who heard a large noise.
His partner of 22 years Pat Ingram said that the community had been fantastic since the tragic accident.
“You don’t expect someone to go to work, and to never come home,” Ms Ingram said.
“But our neighbours, friends, family and Philip’s workmates have been really supportive.”
Ms Ingram said that working at Powelltown Sawmills Pty Ltd had been an important part of Mr Dickson’s life.
“He spent eight hours a day there, and then came home to me – he spent a lot of time there,” Ms Ingram said.
“And that is why when we get the ashes we will divide them into two, and I will keep half and I will give half to the sawmill.
“They need their closure too.”
Often called Fabulous Phil or Lucky Phil, Ms Ingram said her partner was a gentleman, with many friends.
“It was a hell of a shock, but our friends and family rallied around me,” Ms Ingram said.
“Senior Constable Ben Aulich from Yarra Junction was terrific – so professional.
“I just ask for people in the street, not to put their heads down, or cross to the other side of the road – all I ask for is a smile or a wave.”
The accident has left Mr Dickson’s co-workers traumatised.
Harold Fox, part owner of Powelltown Sawmills Pty Ltd, said that Mr Dickson had worked at the sawmill for a number of years.
“Phil was a great mate and will be gravely missed,” Mr Fox said.
“Everyone showed up at the funeral and formed a guard of honour – they are a close bunch of guys.”
Mr Fox said he could only describe the incident as a “freak accident,” not caused by anyone doing anything wrong.
“It’s an absolute tragic incident,” Mr Fox said.
“Together we have to get through this; we were close-knit before, but we’re like a family now – working through it.”
Michael Birt, spokesman for WorkSafe, said the incident was being investigated, but there were no witnesses.
“We have put a prohibition notice in place, which means that the company can continue to work but operate in a slightly different way during the investigation,” Mr Birt said.
“But it comes as a reminder that anyone stacking material needs to take extreme care.
“We will continue to work with the company and industry to make workplaces as safe as possible.”
Over 100 people farewelled Mr Dickson at Lilydale Memorial Park.
Co-workers formed a guard of honour as a final goodbye.
Mr Dickson leaves behind partner Pat, son Mark, daughter-in-law Kellie, grandchildren Arielle and Cassidy and many friends.
