Subscribe
Geoff McDonald, who was a Mechanical Engineer, who assisted many clients of Macrossan & Amiet for 30 years with Expert Reports concerning accidents and means by which they could have been prevented, died on 28 June 2016.
Geoff obtained a Masters Degree in Mechanical Engineering at Queensland University in 1960.
Geoff and Professor Frank Grigg, as university students, did extensive research into tractor rollovers resulting in deaths. Their research indicated that a number of the people killed were highly experienced farmers who did not take risks and still lost their lives.
As a result of their research, rollover protection (ROPS) is now compulsory on all farm machinery. Initially their proposals with respect to compulsory rollover protection on farm tractors were rejected by National Party members of the Bjelke-Petersen government because of the cost that would be imposed on farmers. Their attitude changed later when the member for Redlands, John Goleby rolled his tractor on his Mt Cotton property and was killed and a by-election became necessary.
Geoff’s research lead to a number of changes in rollover protection in various forms of machinery and improved seating in various forms of machinery in the mining industry and other rural industries.
Geoff McDonald was passionate about improving safety for workers and improving the investigation into incidents for the purpose of attempting to prevent them from occurring again.
Geoff McDonald was saddened by the culture that has developed in the mining industry where workers are instructed to report incidents but are discouraged from reporting any loss time incident as the reporting often results in the person injured subsequently losing their employment.
Geoff was honoured by his peers in being granted the inaugural Safety Institute of Australia Lifetime Achievement Award for service to the field of health and safety in Australian workplaces.
Roger Kahler and Brendan McDougall from the InterSafe Group were mentored by Geoff McDonald as young Engineers.
About the author
Gene Paterson
Consultant
LLB
Gene Paterson is originally from the State’s west. He has spent all of his life in Queensland. He lives with his wife Jane at Farleigh.
His outside interests have involved rugby league, horse racing, bush walking and now, grandchildren.
He has been involved for many years with Brothers junior and senior rugby league and the development of facilities for sport in Mackay. He is currently engaged in the expansion/development of Leprechaun Park. He continues to retain an interest in thoroughbred horse racing.
About Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors
For over 100 years, Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors has been a leading local law firm in Mackay, with offices in Proserpine and Cannonvale servicing the Whitsundays region. Our experienced solicitors provide professional legal services to individuals, families and businesses across regional Queensland.
Whether you need representation in court, assistance buying or selling property, or advice on protecting your assets, our Mackay lawyers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.
More Articles from Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors
News and Insights
July 1, 2026
Macrossan & Amiet congratulates Dyane Norton on promotion to Senior Associate
We are delighted to announce that Dyane Norton will be promoted to the position of Senior Associate at Macrossan & Amiet, effective 1 July 2026.
June 16, 2026
Quality Business Awards — Recognising Excellence and Trust
Our Criminal Law and Personal Injury teams receive Quality Business Awards recognition, celebrating exceptional service, professionalism, and commitment to client outcomes.
June 16, 2026
AML/CTF Reforms Are Coming: What Our Clients Need to Know
Australia’s AML/CTF reforms introduce new obligations for lawyers and other professionals from 1 July 2026, requiring client verification, due diligence and transaction scrutiny to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing risks.
June 15, 2026
Leaving Violence Program
The Leaving Violence Program provides financial assistance and support for eligible victim-survivors leaving intimate partner violence relationships, helping them rebuild safely.