The Workplace Relations Commission found that John Deere Forestry Limited unfairly dismissed apprentice Adam Cowman, but made no award because he suffered no loss of earnings.
Cowman said his dismissal followed horseplay during college training and was unfair. The company cited the incident alongside concerns about his conduct, performance and safety. The WRC found the dismissal process did not follow the company’s disciplinary procedure, although dismissal itself was reasonable in April 2022. Its decision was dated 17 January 2025.