A young employee of Australia's largest grain exporter has tragically died following a sudden medical emergency at a worksite in Western Australia's Wheatbelt region.
Tragedy at the Avon site
The incident occurred at approximately 1pm on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the CBH Avon site located in Burlong, near Northam. The worker, a man aged in his 30s, suffered what has been described as a serious suspected medical episode while on the job.
Emergency services were called, and the man was rushed to the Northam Health Service for urgent treatment. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he could not be saved.
Cooperative in mourning
CBH Group, which operates as Australia's biggest agricultural cooperative and leading grain exporter, has confirmed the devastating news. The company's chief operations officer, Mick Daw, expressed profound sorrow over the loss.
"Tragically, the person has passed away," Mr Daw stated. "His next of kin and family have been notified. Our deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones, friends and team members during this extremely difficult time."
In response to the tragedy, CBH has made the decision to close the Avon site. The facility will remain shut until at least Thursday as the company supports its grieving workforce and deals with the aftermath of the incident.
Industry and community impact
The death has sent shockwaves through the close-knit agricultural community and the broader grains industry. Workplace safety is a paramount concern in the agricultural sector, which often involves remote locations and complex machinery.
CBH Group, owned by thousands of Western Australian grain growers, is a cornerstone of the state's agricultural economy. Incidents like this highlight the human dimension behind the large-scale operations that drive Australia's vital export industry.
The company is now focused on providing support to the man's colleagues and family while cooperating with any relevant authorities. The specific nature of the medical episode has not been publicly disclosed, respecting the privacy of the deceased and his family.
