Tag: workplace safety

Aerialist Sustains Jaw Injuries in Equipment Failure

A professional aerialist sustained severe jaw injuries when her equipment failed during a performance at a Fortitude Valley venue.

Read: Festa Italiana Returns to Howard Smith Wharves with Food, Music and Mopeds

Leonie Ceraolo suffered a shattered jaw, broken arm, and multiple other injuries after her sway pole snapped during testing, sending her plummeting more than six meters onto concrete at the Wickham Hotel on Sunday.

Emergency services responded to the Fortitude Valley establishment at approximately 11:47 AM following reports of a fall from height.

Ms. Ceraolo shared on social media: “The sway pole snapped when I was in testing post event. Fell more than six metres high from snapped post on the road of the Wickham. Shattered jaw, broken arm, plus few injuries. I’m so grateful I’m still here today. I’m not done yet.”

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

The aerial performer specialises in acrobatic performances throughout the Brisbane region. It remains unclear what event she was booked to perform at on Sunday.

A spokesperson for the Wickham Hotel confirmed the incident but declined to provide further details, stating: “Our thoughts and well-wishes go out to the individual involved. Out of respect for their privacy and to ensure the integrity of the investigative process, we are unable to comment further at this time.”

Workplace Health and Safety has been contacted regarding the incident.

Photo Credit: GoFundMe
more details on the fundraiser

Friends of Ms. Ceraolo have established a GoFundMe campaign titled “Leonie’s Smile” to assist with her recovery expenses. The fundraiser, organised by Tess Quarrell on behalf of Ms. Ceraolo, has raised $8,015 of its $14,000 goal as of May 6, 2025.

Read: Brisbane’s Newest Mid-Week Market Lands in Queen’s Wharf Brisbane

The campaign explains that Ms. Ceraolo faces financial challenges due to her inability to work while recovering, ongoing medical expenses including dental work, and continuing obligations such as mortgage payments and animal care.

Published 6-May-2025

Sacked Brisbane Trainee Bus Driver Files Claim Over Harassment Allegations

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

A former trainee bus driver for Brisbane has filed complaint with the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC), alleging she was subjected to sexual harassment, bullying, and victimisation by five council employees.

Read: Heritage at Risk? Stock Exchange Hotel in Brisbane City Caught in Development Tug-of-War

The complainant, Annabelle Alistair, began her traineeship on 23 June 2023, under a temporary contract scheduled to conclude on 23 June 2025. However, she was dismissed after an internal investigation found 13 instances of misconduct during her first year.

Ms Alistair contends that her termination was unjust, citing a lack of prior warnings and procedural deficiencies during the investigation.

In her submission to the QIRC, Ms Alistair detailed allegations against five council staff members, from whom she seeks formal apologies. She claims to have endured harassment, bullying, violence, aggression, and inadequate support throughout her employment.

Council has requested the QIRC dismiss her case, arguing that as a temporary employee assigned to a specific task, Ms Alistair is not entitled to unfair dismissal protections.

The QIRC has permitted Council to engage legal representation, acknowledging the complexity of the case and the serious nature of the allegations. The proceedings are ongoing, with the tribunal yet to assess the credibility of witnesses and the validity of the claims.

Brisbane employs over 2,600 bus drivers and is actively recruiting more. They get paid on-the-job training, including customer service and safe bus handling procedures, and provides uniforms and flexible working hours.

Brisbane bus driver files complaint
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Council representatives have emphasised their commitment to a safe and respectful workplace, stating that all complaints are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.

Workplace sexual harassment is a significant issue in Australia. Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. The Queensland Government emphasises the importance of educating employees to prevent, intervene early, and respond to offensive behaviours in the workplace.

Read: Queensland Country Bank Secures Prime Location in Brisbane CBD’s ‘Golden Triangle’

The QIRC will continue to examine the details of Alistair’s case, including her claims of harassment and the council’s justification for her dismissal. The outcome may have broader implications for how temporary employees are treated concerning unfair dismissal protections and workplace harassment allegations.

Published 2-Jan-2025