Emma Varis dies in a tragic accident at a property in Western Australia
A young farm worker has been tragically killed while rounding up cattle on a quad bike.
Emma Varis, 22, was working on a property in Western Australia’s Dandaragan shire last Wednesday when the quad bike she was riding overturned.
She is survived by her parents Greg and Sharon and older siblings Ryan and Kate.
Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from devastated family and friends.
Her sister wrote an emotional tribute on Facebook hours after the tragic accident.
“The world got a little darker on Wednesday,” Kate wrote.
Emma Varis was rounding up cattle on a quad bike when she was killed in a tragic accident
“We ask that people be respectful, kind and everyone look out for each other in these times and that they can show each other the same love and care that Emma did.
“We love you little hobbit and you made such a positive impact and filled everyone’s lives with so much fun, love and joy while you were here.”
A devastated friend compiled a video collage of Ms. Varis.
‘It still doesn’t feel real that we won’t see you again Emma. Thank you for all the wonderful memories you have given us all,” he wrote.
Another added: ‘Absolutely loved Em’s friendship and being in her company on and off the hockey field. So many fun times together, memories I will cherish forever. Along with her big long hugs she always gave me. They were the BEST.’
The tragic death of Emma Varis last week has prompted an outpouring of tributes
Others hailed Ms. Varis as one in a million with a heart of gold, whose infectious smile and personality lit up any room.
Originally from Collie in WA’s south west, Ms Varis graduated from the WA College of Agriculture in 2019 before heading north to work on the land.
Mrs Varis was also a talented hockey player and much-loved member of the close-knit local community in Dandaragan.
‘Emma, your beautiful, bubbly and supportive nature touched a huge chord within our club. A true friend, club member and Premier League player. Thank you for your shining light on and off the field, you will all be greatly missed,’ wrote Dandaragan Football Club.
WorkSafe investigators have traveled to the property to ‘ensure compliance and prevent future incidents’.
At least nine Australians have died in four bike-related incidents so far in 2023.
A recent independent investigation into the farming industry found five workers died in four bicycle-related incidents on WA farms between 2017 and 2022, according to the WA WorkSafe Commissioner.
West Australian farm worker Emma Varis (pictured) loved animals and working the land
