The heartbroken family of a 15-year-old apprentice killed in a devastating workplace accident on Australia's Gold Coast have paid an emotional tribute to their 'beautiful boy'. Beau Bradford died on Monday morning after being struck by a large object that fell from machinery at a Surfers Paradise construction site.
A Tragic Morning on Site
The fatal incident occurred around 7am on Monday at a construction site in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Beau was working when a large object fell from the boom of a concrete pump truck, striking him. Despite the rapid response of paramedics who rushed to the scene, the teenager could not be saved. His family confirmed he died on impact.
A Family's Tribute to a 'Beautiful Boy'
In a statement released through his aunt, Alicia Downs, Beau's devastated loved ones described him as a cherished son and their 'greatest blessing'. 'Beau wasn’t built for classroom walls... he was built for real work,' Ms Downs told the Daily Mail on Tuesday. 'He loved being on-site, learning new things, and pushing himself.'
The family highlighted his extraordinary work ethic, noting it was something 'many adults spend a lifetime trying to find'. They shared that he was incredibly proud of the career path he was carving for himself in the construction industry.
Beau is remembered as an adored big brother to Irah, a loved stepson, nephew, grandson, cousin, and a true best friend. 'His kindness, his caring heart, and his quick sense of humour could brighten any room,' his aunt added. 'If you ever had the privilege of meeting Beau, you’d know that the world is a lot dimmer today without him.'
Community Support and Safety Investigation
The family has launched a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs and to allow Beau's parents, Amanda and Cameron, to take necessary time off to grieve. The appeal has seen an outpouring of support, raising nearly $50,000. Contributions have flooded in from Beau's school community and his peers across the construction industry, who have shared heartfelt tributes online.
In the wake of the tragedy, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland has been notified. A spokeswoman confirmed the agency is aware of the incident and that inspectors have attended the site to begin an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal workplace accident.
