It is with profound sadness that we report the untimely passing of Brett Hinton, a 47-year-old electrical linesman and respected sound editor, who tragically lost his life following a workplace accident in Randwick, Sydney. The incident occurred just before 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, while Brett was operating a cherry picker on Darley Road as part of his duties with Ausgrid. He came into contact with overhead power lines, resulting in a sudden cardiac arrest. Despite the immediate efforts of his colleagues, who administered CPR until paramedics arrived, and subsequent medical attention at St Vincent’s Hospital, Brett was pronounced dead later that day.
Brett’s passing has deeply affected both the trade and creative communities. In addition to his role at Ausgrid, he was known in creative circles as a talented sound editor, earning respect among peers for his contributions to the field. His kindness and professionalism left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
Ausgrid confirmed Brett was one of their employees and expressed deep sorrow over the loss. A spokesperson stated, “We are devastated by the death of our team member Brett Hinton. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends, and colleagues. We are cooperating fully with authorities to understand the circumstances.”
The incident also caused temporary power outages in Randwick, with Ausgrid crews working through the evening to restore services and ensure public safety.
New South Wales Police have launched an investigation into the fatal incident, establishing a crime scene to determine the exact sequence of events. A report is being prepared for the coroner, and the matter has been referred to SafeWork NSW for a comprehensive review of workplace safety procedures.
Brett’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with high-risk electrical work and elevated platforms. His loss is deeply felt across both the trade and media communities, highlighting the importance of stringent safety measures in such professions.
As the investigation continues, our thoughts are with Brett’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. His contributions to both his trade and the creative industry will not be forgotten.
