Friends mourn Queensland brothers found dead in molasses tank
Friends and family are mourning two Queensland brothers found dead in a molasses tank.
The bodies of truck drivers Frank and George Vella, 52 and 48, were found in the tank on Saturday night.
George Vella (pictured) and his brother Frank died in a workplace accident on Friday.
Photo: Vella Haulage.Police believed the men, working for Vella Haulage Sarina, had been affected by fumes.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland is investigating the incident at Sarina Beach, about 37 kilometres south of Mackay.
A spokesman said two molasses tanks were attached to a prime mover.
George’s former boss, Mackay Haulage co-owner Angelo Sorbello, described the Vellas as “top blokes”.
George spent more than 10 years under Angelo and his brother Sam’s stewardship before a downturn meant he had to go out on his own, Mr Sorbello said.
“Sam and myself are devastated,” he said, noting he had spoken to George on Thursday.
“Absolutely devastated. Cry like a baby we did.
“Can’t believe those two brothers perished. It’s total devastation ... He was a man who, if you ring him up, he’d always try and do something for you.”
Daily Mercury reported the tanks had been used to carry fertiliser as well as molasses.
According to Mr Sorbello, Vella Haulage had been heavily involved in drought relief.
Last week George posted to Facebook that he was helping the Aussie Helpers organisation deliver hay to farmers.
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