A "KIND-HEARTED" teenager who was tragically killed in a forklift accident at a chicken farm on the outskirts of Tamworth has been remembered for his incredible sense of humour and love of animals.
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Tributes poured in for Nathan 'Gutto' Gutterson from devastated family and friends, after he died on the job at Baiada at Bective in the early hours of Monday morning.
Both police and SafeWork NSW investigations continue after the 19-year-old was struck by a forklift and seriously injured during his shift.
Despite the best efforts of his workmates and emergency services, he died at the scene.
"Gutto was a kind-hearted, gentle soul who had an incredible sense of humour," friend Lynell Opie told the Leader.
"He always took the time to check-in on his mates and considered them family."
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She said the young man had a soft spot for children and animals, especially his pet ducks.
"His work ethic was amazing ... he always prioritised working hard to make those around him proud," Ms Opie said.
"Gutto will be truly missed by those whose hearts he touched and he will always by remembered by his infectious smile that lit up any room.
"Forever young."
A statement from Baiada Poultry said the whole team extended their "deepest and sincerest condolences" to the family and friends of the young man, as well as the staff at the Tamworth farm.
The spokesperson said the company was assisting police and SafeWork NSW, and also conducting its own investigation.
Jactina Penfold described her friend as the light to everyone's darkness.
"He was the love of his friends' happiness and the life of our party ... he had a heart of gold," she said.
"He was a hard-working man and loved his family and friends dearly."
Social media was flooded with tributes as news spread on Tuesday of his sudden death.
He was a hard-working man and loved his family and friends dearly.
- Jacinta Penfold
Police said Mr Gutterson was working at the Bective business 18km north west of Tamworth when the incident happened about 4am on Monday.
Fellow workers rushed to help him and emergency services were urgently called to the scene, but he could not be saved.
Oxley police established a crime scene and launched an investigation.
SafeWork NSW said it was investigating a fatal incident where a man was struck by a forklift while working at a Bective chicken farm.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
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