Worker Crushed By Wind Turbine Blade Remembered By Friends And Family
Tragedy struck at the Golden Plains Wind Farm, located approximately 132 kilometers west of Melbourne, when Jess Patience, 36, was tragically killed on November 11, 2024. An installation technician well-regarded by friends and colleagues, Patience was crushed by a 22-tonne wind turbine blade during preparation for installation, leading to his immediate passing at the scene.
During the early hours of the morning, it's believed the turbine blade became dislodged from its support platform, resulting in the tragic accident. Friends describe Patience as not only skilled at his job but as someone who made everyone around him feel valued. His loss has spurred heartwarming honors from the community and colleagues alike, with many celebrating his amicable spirit.
“Jess was one of the most friendly guys I’ve met,” one coworker shared on social media. “He took me under his wing to teach me. This tragedy should have never happened.” Many have described him as amazing, generous, and always willing to share his time with others. Indeed, his absence leaves behind not just grief but countless cherished memories and connections.
Shortly after the sad news broke, friends set up a GoFundMe to aid his widow amid the unforeseen costs associated with his death. Launched by fellow technician Leeroy Denko, the fundraiser aimed to raise $15,000 but has since exceeded $100,000, showcasing the community's love and support for his family during this unimaginably difficult time.
“We want to honour his memory and support his family during this difficult time,” Denko wrote on the fundraising page. “Your contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference.” An anonymous donor even contributed $25,000, highlighting the deep impact Patience had on the lives of those around him.
The Australian Workers Union (AWU) criticized Vestas Wind Systems, the Danish company overseeing the turbine installation, saying they had expressed safety concerns related to working conditions weeks before the fatal incident. Ronnie Hayden, the AWU's Victoria secretary, declared, “This devastating loss could have been prevented. This is not just another statistic; this is a worker who went to work and never came home.”
Other union representatives echoed Hayden’s sentiments, noting safety precautions hadn’t been taken seriously at the worksite. They asserted “serious safety concerns” were flagged with Vestas prior to the tragedy. The union claims this incident emphasizes the dire need for all workers' voices to be heard when it relates to safety on the job.
Vestas has since halted operations at the site as WorkSafe Victoria investigates the incident. Danny Nielsen, Vestas' country head for Australia and New Zealand, expressed the company’s deep sorrow to Patience's family and friends. He emphasized workplace safety as Vestas's number one priority and mentioned they routinely meet with unions to address safety-related issues.
“To my knowledge, we hadn’t discussed this specific concern previously,” Nielsen said, indicating the complexity of workplace safety and communication within organizations. “We take our obligations very seriously and will fully support the investigation.”
The Golden Plains Wind Farm, expected to be the largest wind farm in the southern hemisphere, aims to generate approximately nine percent of Victoria’s current energy demand once completed. This commitment to renewables remains pivotal for the state’s energy future.
Emergency services were called to the site shortly after the accident, but sadly, first responders were unable to revive Patience, who was declared dead at the scene. Witnesses reported seeing multiple vehicles from emergency services—a reminder of the devastating impacts of workplace accidents.
Patience’s death marks the 38th confirmed workplace fatality for the year 2024, raising concerns over worker safety industry-wide. The emphasis placed on safety measures is not merely about compliance but about safeguarding the lives of individuals who undertake often strenuous jobs to support their families.
The wind farm community grieves the loss of one of their own, and as detailed tributes roll out from coworkers, the overarching sentiment remains—that Patience was not only skilled but truly beloved. This accident stands as sobering evidence of the risks faced on job sites and the necessity of acknowledging organizational safety protocols for preventing tragedies.
The accident at the Golden Plains Wind Farm is not just another incident but rather highlights the urgent need for reinforcing safety measures across industries. It's about enhancing the commitment to ensuring every worker returns home safe
During this grieving period, the community rallies together to honor his legacy through support and solidarity for his family.Within the heart of the wind farm sector, the heartfelt tributes echo the desire to keep his memory alive. With the emotional support from friends, family, and the community, Jess Patience’s legacy will not fade but instead flourish in the multiple lives he touched.
