Case 7

The worker, a 32 year old horse trainer/track worker, lodged an Application for Compensation for an injury he sustained when a horse reared and fell on top of him in August 2009. The claim was accepted for a left shoulder contusion and nerve damage. Compensation and medical payments were paid from August 2009 to March 2010, when the claim was ceased.

Evidence obtained confirmed the worker competed in bull riding competitions on two occasions in January and February 2010 whilst reporting to WorkCover that he would not be able to return to normal duties. The worker also presented to his medical specialist stating that he would not be able to ride horses by virtue of his injury.

The worker was charged with defrauding WorkCover and he pleaded guilty to the charge on 16 November 2010. The Magistrate imposed a fine of $2,750 and he was ordered to pay restitution of $4,622 plus costs and a conviction was recorded. The Magistrate said it was brazen behaviour to claim WorkCover and ride a bull.