- Published:
- Thursday, 26 June 2025 at 11:24 am
A crane driver who injured himself and a co-worker when he struck powerlines has been spared penalties after he admitted to illegally operating a vehicle near an overhead powerline in inner Melbourne 2 years ago.
At Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Monday 23 June, Robert Virtue pleaded guilty to one charge of failing to maintain the minimum distance between machinery and aerial power lines, an offence under the Electricity Safety (General) Regulations 2019, and was sentenced to an unconditional dismissal with no order of penalty.
In sentencing, Magistrate Cameron noted that Mr Virtue was responsible for the safety of people nearby, even while under pressure to “get the job done”, but Her Honour cited the man’s good character and excellent operational record as reasons for the dismissal.
Energy Safe Victoria investigated after being alerted to a serious electrical incident at an Abbotsford apartment building on 14 July 2023 when a crane’s steel wire rope hit a powerline and caused what witnesses described as “a ball of flame” and a loud explosion.
The worker who was guiding the crane load received an electric shock and Mr Virtue, who was operating the crane, suffered shock. Both were taken to hospital.
“This close-call incident should serve as a reminder about how important it is for all workers to ensure they are well clear of powerlines when operating heavy machinery, especially when moving heavy loads,” Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson said.
“Ignoring safety responsibilities puts both workers and bystanders at serious risk, and pressure to get the job done quickly is no excuse.”
In a related matter, the company that employed Mr Virtue, MCG Cranes, was found guilty of the same offence and fined $3,000 without conviction in January 2025.
Energy Safe. Always.
Reviewed