The grandfather who died alongside his grandson when machinery rolled into a central Queensland dam at the weekend is being remembered as a “devoted family man” and “respected leader”.

The deaths of AgForce central Queensland councillor Ian Burnett and his seven-year-old grandson on an Emerald property on Sunday have sent shock waves through the Central Highlands community and agriculture industry.

Mr Burnett was a highly respected, third-generation farmer who remained deeply involved in the Emerald and broader agricultural community after retirement.

The 70-year-old grain and beef producer had served almost 30 years with AgForce, including as a councillor, state vice-president and president.

Farmer Ian Burnett smiles in front of a field of cotton crops.

Ian Burnett played a pivotal role in establishing and strengthening cotton production in central Queensland. (Supplied: Cotton Australia)

AgForce president Shane McCarthy said the community was devastated by the loss.

“Ian was a devoted family man, a respected leader and a genuinely community-minded person,” Mr McCarthy said.

“He was a very unassuming character who had a lot of knowledge and a lot of time for people.

“Sometimes we don’t tell the people while they’re still with us what they mean to people … and maybe we should … do that more often.”

Farmer Ian Burnett kneels in a wheat field inspecting the crops.

Ian Burnett is being remembered as a family man and respected leader. (ABC Rural: Ashleigh Bagshaw)

Long-serving AgForce member and friend of 50 years, Anthony “Bim” Struss, remembered Mr Burnett as a thoughtful and reflective leader.

“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,” Mr Struss said.

“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.”

Cotton Australia also paid tribute to Mr Burnett, who began growing cotton when he moved to Emerald from Clermont in 1983.

“Ian was more than a respected cotton grower; he was a leader, a mentor and a quiet powerhouse of Australian agriculture,” CEO Adam Kay said.

“Ian leaves behind a legacy of leadership, service and integrity, and he will be deeply missed.”

A family stands in a field of blooming white cotton buds against a backdrop of bright blue sky.

Ian Burnett with his partner, Julie Lancaster, and sons Ross and Nigel Burnett. (Supplied: Cotton Australia)

After stepping away from his role in AgForce, Mr Burnett remained a passionate community member of Rotary and the Rural Fire Brigade and helped fundraise for the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Emerald.

Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said Mr Burnett was always willing to lend a hand.

“In regional communities like Emerald, people like Ian are the backbone,” Ms Landry said.

“They are the ones who show up, who contribute, and who quietly make a difference every single day.”

Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-31/tributes-for-agricultural-stalwart-ian-burnett-and-grandson/106515616