AgForce is deeply saddened by the passing of its former General President Ian Burnett and his grandson in a tragic farming accident in Central Queensland.
A third-generation farmer, Ian was a highly respected Emerald grain and beef producer and a deeply committed member of the AgForce community for nearly 30 years.
Ian made a valued contribution to AgForce, first as a Central Queensland Councillor, then as State Vice President from 2008-2012, before serving as General President from 2013-2014. Even in retirement, he remained a dedicated and active member of AgForce.
The passing of Ian and his grandson has come as a great shock to the Queensland agricultural community, said Shane McCarthy, AgForce General President.
"We are all devastated by the loss of Ian and his beloved grandson. Ian was a devoted family man, a respected leader and a genuinely community-minded person," Mr McCarthy said.
"He served as AgForce General President with distinction and remained heavily involved in agricultural advocacy throughout his life. Ian was always available to support fellow Board members and elected representatives, offering guidance and perspective when it was needed.
"As a past President, Ian understood the pressures that come with the role. He never imposed himself but had a quiet presence and was always there for a conversation or advice if asked.
"Ian was passionate about AgForce and the agricultural sector and was a leader who helped shape the path for others.
"We often say we are following in the footsteps of giants - and Ian was one of those."
Long-serving AgForce member Anthony 'Bim' Struss reflected on a lifelong friendship and shared commitment to the agriculture sector.
"My friendship with Ian spanned more than 50 years from our days together on the football field with the Clermont Bears, to standing side by side as advocates for our industry through AgForce.
"Ian was a thoughtful and reflective leader. He was not a man to make waves for the sake of it, but he led with truth, steadiness and determination earning genuine respect at the highest levels of government, while never losing sight of the members he represented.
"Above all, Ian was a family man. He was deeply committed to his children, always encouraging them to strive, while guiding them to make the most of their opportunities. Ian was also special to his grandchildren - they adored him and simply wanted to be with him.
"He would have been utterly devastated that his grandson was lost with him. That thought sits heavily with all of us who knew and loved him.
"Ian Burnett was a special person, a good man in every sense of the word. His love for his family, his community and the agricultural industry was clear in everything he did. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten."
John Baker, AgForce Board Director and Central Queensland Regional President, said Ian's loss will be felt deeply by the community of Emerald and beyond.
"I've known Ian since our days together at Rockhampton Grammar School and was fortunate to continue that friendship over the years. Ian was a true gentleman, a dear friend, a great family man and a committed community man.
"In his position on the Central Queensland Regional Council, Ian was always positive, supportive and encouraging - he was the rock that we could lean on for guidance and advice.
"Outside of AgForce, Ian was heavily involved in Rotary and as the Emerald Rotary Chair he was part of the team that raised around $1m for a patient transfer station for the Royal Flying Doctor Service at the Emerald Airport. He was also a very successful businessman who mentored many and was always happy to share his knowledge and experience - a true role model.
"The old saying 'they don't make them like that anymore' rings true in Ian's case. His passing has left a huge hole in the hearts of many across Central Queensland. Rest in peace, my friend."
AgForce would like to extend its deepest sympathies to the loved ones of Ian and his grandson.
