Concrete Boom Operator Warned After Possum Shaking Incident in Brisbane

A concrete boom pump operator in Brisbane received a formal warning after footage surfaced showing him deliberately shaking a native ringtail possum off a 30-meter concrete boom. The incident occurred on Friday, February 13, 2026.

A concrete boom pump operator in Brisbane received a formal warning after footage surfaced showing him deliberately shaking a native ringtail possum off a 30-meter concrete boom.

The Incident Unfolds

Footage, initially posted on TikTok by a nearby worker, depicted the possum on a fully extended concrete boom pump owned by Arete Concrete. The operator then caused the possum to fall to the cement surface below.

Subsequent views of the animal showed it appearing to twitch or convulse on the ground. Workers present were observed looking at the incident without attempting to safely lower the boom for the possum. The original poster of the video stated that workers were laughing and that the action was intentional.

Company Takes Swift Action

Steve Murdoch, managing director of Arete Concrete, stated that action was taken within an hour of him becoming aware of the incident.

He confirmed that the concrete boom operator employee received a formal counselling and warning on February 13, 2026. The employee acknowledged the actions were incorrect and expressed regret.

Murdoch also reported that the possum survived the fall and, by company accounts, ran away from the worksite. This information was not independently verified. All Arete staff have since been briefed on updated procedures for encountering wildlife, which include stopping work and contacting appropriate authorities or returning the animal to its habitat.

External Investigations Underway

RSPCA Queensland confirmed receiving a report regarding the matter and is reviewing the available evidence to determine if further action is required. Queensland Police Service referred queries to the RSPCA.