Quad bikes have been snapped up by Victorian farmers ever since they were introduced.
The reasons are simple: they’re adaptable to farm tasks, they can tackle difficult terrain and they’re easy to use.
But this has come at a cost to our farming community. Quad bikes now sit at the top of the leader board as a major cause of farm accidents and fatalities.
The VFF and WorkSafe Victoria have put together a rebate program for the fitting of operator protection devices to quad bikes or the replacement of the quad bike with a safer side by side vehicle with rollover protection.
This is a vital program that will protect Victorian farmers’ lives. You can’t underestimate the importance of farm safety. Last year there were 22 quad bike fatalities across Australia and six in Victoria alone. We need this program now more than ever.
From October 1, rebates of up to $600 can be claimed on two eligible OPDs – the QuadBar and the ATV Lifeguard – as well as a $1200 rebate on alternate vehicles.
But by all means get in early and purchase equipment from September onwards – you’ll still be eligible for the program.
We know there’s been some confusion over eligibility, but to be clear, we’re not handing out rebates on vehicles that are obviously designed for sport, not farming. And you can’t claim the rebate on purchasing second-hand vehicles.
The rebate has been restricted to two types of OPD, which are designed and manufactured in accordance with approved engineering standards and independently tested.
While many farmers are pretty damned good welders, I’m sorry to say you can’t just bend up a bit of bar, bolt it on the bike and claim a $600 rebate.
This program is designed to make sure that when we head off to bring the cows in, or whatever task we are tackling, we come back with both the cows and ourselves intact.
We expect more than 5000 farmers will take up the program over next two years, but tell your friends and neighbours.
It’s a great opportunity to protect your family, workers, and of course yourself from the risks of using quad bikes. I recommend getting in early to take advantage of the rebate. Details on farmer eligibility for the scheme can be found at www.bequadsafe.com.au.
