Scott’s recovery after lathe injury highlights return-to-work support

Scott Mifsud was carrying out a task he had performed hundreds of times when his hand was pulled into the lathe at Daradgee Welding Works, a family-owned business near Innisfail that makes agricultural equipment for the banana industry.

“Split second, my hand got dragged into the machine and I just remember looking down at my hand and yelling and I could see that my thumb was gone,” Scott said.

Scott was airlifted to Brisbane, where surgeons worked overnight to reattach his thumb. WorkCover promptly approved his surgery, treatment and wages during his time away from work. Scott said that support gave him and his family peace of mind.

During his hospital stay, Scott began feeling down and did not want visitors. Through WorkCover, he accessed adjustment to injury counselling, which can support workers recovering from a physical injury. He saw psychologists in Brisbane and later in Innisfail, and described their help as valuable in understanding and coping with his feelings.

WorkCover case manager Kristy Mitchell described Scott as motivated throughout his recovery and keen to return to work. She said he made use of the support available, including working with a psychologist to get the treatment he needed.

Scott initially returned on part-time hours, gradually increasing his hours and tasks as his recovery progressed. Returning to work was part of his wish to regain a sense of normality.

Daradgee Welding Works director Jason Sapuppo, who described Scott as both a mate and a friend, welcomed his return. Scott was able to watch work, offer advice and help with quoting. Jason said the ease of accessing support through WorkCover had helped the business.

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