James Cassidy was working as an underground operator in the Mt Lyell copper mine on Tasmania’s west coast when tragedy struck.

Two men were killed when a temporary platform collapsed in December 2013. Another worker died a month later in a mud rush.

For James, these workplace deaths had a profound impact.

“The loss of three workers in such a short period of time was such a tragedy,” he said. “The impact rippled through so many people, including their families, their co-workers and the wider Queenstown community.

“For me, it opened my eyes to how important it is to embed a practical and best practice workplace safety system to reduce the potential for accidents and incidents.”

James then embarked on the next chapter of his career, working to create safer, more accountable and connected workplaces.

He has just been appointed Tasmanian Irrigation’s new Safety Manager

“After working for 10 years in high-risk mining operations and heavy industry, plus an additional five years in the water sector, I have a deep understanding of how culture, communication and clarity impact safety and performance,” James said.

“I have both on-the-tools operational experience and professional health and safety leadership, giving me a grounded understanding of the realities faced by frontline workers alongside the systems required to support safe and sustainable operations.

“My key focus is on improving safety culture, strengthening risk management practices and building systems that make safe work easier, clearer and more practical for teams in the field.”

James’ immediate priority is to work with Tasmanian Irrigation employees, contractors and other stakeholders to deliver key safety priorities.

James was the fifth generation of his family to grow up on their farm at Red Hills in the Meander Valley and understands first-hand the importance of agriculture to the State.

“I recognise the critical role irrigation plays in supporting Tasmania’s economy and how agriculture shapes the identity, communities and lifestyle that define our state,” he said.

“This connection provides a strong foundation for my approach to safety, balancing practical outcomes with respect for the people and environments that make the industry unique.

“Success in this will be reflected through stronger safety culture outcomes, simpler and more effective systems, improved visibility of risk controls, including psychosocial risks, high-quality event learning, and data-driven insights that support decision-making at all levels of the organisation.”