We Can’t Believe He’s G0ne: Family’s Heartbreaking Grief After Josh Thomson-Parkin’s Fa-t-al Workplace Accident
The South Australian arboriculture community is mourning the loss of Josh Thomson‑Parkin, who was killed in a workplace woodchipper accident on August 11.
The 26‑year‑old has been remembered as a kind, hardworking young man whose infectious grin “could lift the mood of any room”.
The South Australian Society of Arboriculture (SASA) says Josh was a beloved husband, son, brother and “valued member of our industry”, and has launched a fundraiser to support his grieving family.
SASA described Josh as someone people naturally gravitated towards; honest, genuine and “always willing to help others”.
“For those who never had the chance to meet him, know that he was a truly good person. He left a lasting impression on everyone around him,” the tribute reads, adding that his “beautiful” family now faces a loss “no family should ever have to endure”.
The industry also hopes to establish a lasting memorial in his honour.
Police say the young man from Adelaide’s southern suburbs was found deceased at the council‑owned worksite on Harrison Rd early Wednesday morning.
Josh’s father Max Parkin told 7NEWS he found his son after he failed to return home from work, a moment he says will stay with him forever.
He said Josh had spoken the night before about ongoing issues with the commercial woodchipper he was using. Max believes the machine became clogged while Josh was working alone.
“I found him in that machine,” he said.
“It was giving him a hard time all that day.”
A fundraiser has now been set up to help Josh’s wife and family.
SAPOL confirmed officers are preparing a report for the Coroner following the fatal incident.
Mechanical Vegetation Solutions says it is “deeply saddened” by Josh’s death and is supporting those affected.
SafeWork SA says investigators and inspectors are “making further enquiries and assessing the circumstances surrounding the incident” under its standard investigative process.
