A Queensland mother is suing Woolworths for more than $1.7million after allegedly suffering an injury while breaking down cardboard from a pallet of watermelons, claiming she needs treatments including Botox and Pilates.
Lyticia Freshwater, who lives on the Sunshine Coast, was the assistant produce manager at Woolworths' Caloundra store when the alleged incident happened in 2023.
In a statement of claim tendered to Brisbane's Supreme Court, Ms Freshwater claims she suffered permanent impairment when she fell backwards and struck her head on the concrete floor after breaking down cardboard used to secure a pallet of watermelons.
She said she stepped on the cardboard to help fold it down when it suddenly snapped back, causing her to lose her balance.
The mother of three said she suffered an 11 per cent Psychiatric Injury Rating Scale score and was no longer able to engage in pre‑injury social and recreational activities, including her previous employment.
Ms Freshwater alleges Woolworths failed to provide a safe system of work, properly identify or mitigate risks, or adequately train or supervise staff in carrying out the task.
She is claiming more than $1.74million, excluding interest, for her injuries, future loss of income, and medical treatments for neurological symptoms and psychological injuries such as persistent headaches, pain in her cervical spine, numbness, and depression.
Among the future payments listed in the claim are treatments such as Botox, pilates, massage, acupuncture, and travel on a 'global basis'.
Lyticia Freshwater allegedly suffered an injury while breaking down cardboard from a pallet of watermelons
She was the assistant produce manager at Woolworths' Caloundra store when the incident happened in 2023
'I've been through so many stages - grief, anger and a real loss of self-worth,' Ms Freshwater said.
'I don't get to just go home and rest. I have children who rely on me.
'Trying to manage that while dealing with the injury has been incredibly hard, and despite my determination to get back to work and be the person I was before, that just wasn't possible.'
Ms Freshwater also spoke about her frustrations with the lack of support she felt she received from the supermarket giant.
'I'd been with the company for five years and was really dedicated to my role. After the injury, I received the same check-in call each week,' she said.
'It felt robotic, like I was just another box to tick rather than a person who needed help. There were times I felt like I just wasn't being heard.'
Ms Freshwater's personal injury lawyer, Isabella Blunt from Travis Schultz & Partners, said the matter shows how simple tasks can pose significant dangers, the Sunshine Coast Daily reports.
'There's a perception that workplace injuries happen in high-risk industries or dangerous occupations – but in reality, they can happen anywhere,' Ms Blunt said.
The case is currently before Brisbane's Supreme Court
'Many serious injuries occur during routine tasks. These tasks are repeated countless times a day – but it only takes one moment for someone's life to change.
'The statutory scheme is there to provide support to injured workers for their recovery and return to work, but delays in treatment approvals and inconsistent decision-making can leave injured people in limbo.'
The case is yet to be determined by the court.
The Supreme Court documents indicate a notice of intention to defend has been filed.
The Daily Mail has contacted Ms Freshwater's lawyer and Woolworths Group for comment.