Category seven – Injured worker achievement award
Nathan was involved in a serious workplace incident in August 2022, while using machinery that didn't have a guard attached. He was treated at the St George local hospital before being airlifted to the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane the following day. His injuries were extensive resulting in Nathan having his right foot amputated with a below knee T2 transtibial amputation.
Nathan was in hospital for several months following the accident and in that time, he had another surgery and participated in rehabilitation. Although he experienced fatigue and endured stump pain from the fitting of his prosthetic foot, Nathan was determined and completed all of his rehabilitation above expectations.
Throughout his ordeal, Nathan frequently spoke to his rehabilitation and return to work officer about his progress and return to work plans. He was proactive in providing solutions to some of the potential barriers he may experience when returning to work. Initially Nathan was able to return to work on a suitable duties plan for four hours per day for two weeks. This increased to six hours per day and in November 2022, he was able to return to normal duties with minimal restrictions.