On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, Toby Manifold, 21, was killed in a job accident at a Lara plant on Forest Road South, Victoria. While clearing grain off a truck, he was struck by a reversing front-loader. Despite the efforts of rescue personnel, he passed away at the spot. WorkSafe Victoria has opened an inquiry, and police have verified that the death is not being investigated as suspicious.
Emergency services, including Advanced Life Support and Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance paramedics, were called to the site just after 8:15 a.m. following reports that a man had become trapped between a truck and a loader.
Responders attempted to save him, but Toby was pronounced dead at the scene. Victoria Police stated that a report will be prepared for the coroner, while WorkSafe inspectors began examining the circumstances surrounding the incident, including machinery operation and site safety protocols.
The accident occurred at a grain storage and handling facility on Forest Road South in Lara, a semi‑industrial area outside Geelong. Initial findings suggest Toby was cleaning grain from a truck when the front‑loader reversed, pinning him fatally. WorkSafe Victoria confirmed that the incident involved heavy machinery and that investigators are focusing on whether safety procedures were adequately followed.
Local media reported that Toby’s death has deeply affected the Lara community. Friends and neighbors described him as a young man full of warmth and energy, someone who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His sudden passing has prompted tributes across social media, with many expressing sorrow and calling for stronger workplace safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.
WorkSafe Victoria has emphasized that investigations into workplace deaths can take months, as inspectors review compliance with occupational health and safety laws, interview witnesses, and assess whether charges should be filed against the employer or operators involved. The agency has reiterated its commitment to ensuring safe work environments, particularly in industries involving heavy machinery.
Police confirmed that the incident is not being treated as suspicious, ruling out foul play. Instead, the focus remains on workplace safety standards and accountability. A coroner’s report will provide further clarity on the exact cause of death and whether systemic failures contributed to the tragedy.
The death of Toby Manifold adds to a troubling pattern of workplace fatalities in Victoria, where agriculture and industrial sectors continue to face heightened risks. Community members and safety advocates have urged employers to prioritize training, supervision, and machinery safeguards to protect workers, especially younger employees like Toby.
