Worksafe said the 60-year-old was slashing on uneven ground when the incident happened on a property off Old Western Highway.

Mr Balharrie was an experienced livestock sales agent and most recently worked at Nutrien Ag Solutions in Delacombe.

Workmate Xavier Shanahan paid him the ultimate tribute:

"Bruce was respected by everyone in the industry, large or small, from agents, clients, buyers, staff and contractors."Bruce had a massive work ethic, he always prided himself not only on his own personal presentation, but that of the stock he drafted to be offered for sale.

"He was a stickler for taking the time to show how stock should be presented. "His unique wit was among his many qualities and things will never be the same at Ballarat saleyards.

"No-one will forget Bruce and he will be forever fondly remembered."

A statement from the Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association described Bruce as a "born stock agent".

After growing up locally, he learned the ropes of his profession at Crawford and Dowling.

Later he joined with father Max to set up M&B Balharrie, an agency that enjoyed a strong local following with loyal clientele for around 20 years.

The association said that the business was dissolved when Max retired at age 80.

From 2007 onwards Bruce continued his career at Landmark Ballarat. Bruce turned 60 just three weeks before his death.

ALPA said he was one of the most-loved and proud members of their industry who had recently fought - and beaten - a bout of cancer.

"To all Nutrien staff, particularly at Ballarat and Wagga Wagga (where Bruce's son works), clients and members of the Balharrie family please accept our most profound respects and we are so sorry for your loss which has come way too early.

"The ALPA family is a special one and may we offer our sincere condolences to wife Janine, three children Max, Kate and Ned and the entire Balharrie family.

"Please be assured of our thoughts and prayers and our collective sadness.

"We all pay tribute to our wonderful agent, friend, husband and father and thank him for a life beautifully lived."

WorkSafe Victoria are investigating.

By Gabe Hodson, Moorabool Online.