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Two Separate Helicopter Crashes in Queensland and New South Wales Under Investigation

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Fatal Helicopter Crashes Under Investigation in Queensland and NSW

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is investigating two separate fatal helicopter crashes that occurred in rural Queensland and New South Wales over recent days.

Crash Near Jericho, Queensland

Location and Timing
A helicopter crash occurred on a rural property off Tumbar Road, south of Jericho in western Queensland. Emergency services were notified at approximately 9:20 AM on Monday.

Casualty and Aircraft
The pilot, a 42-year-old man, was the sole occupant of the Robinson R22 aircraft and was declared deceased at the scene.

Investigation Status
Police will prepare a report for the coroner. A team of specialist investigators from the ATSB is expected to arrive on site on Tuesday. The investigation will involve:

  • Examination of the aircraft and site mapping.
  • Recovery of components for further examination at ATSB technical facilities in Canberra.
  • Interviews with any witnesses.
  • Collection of relevant recorded information, pilot records, and aircraft maintenance records.

Crash Near Drake, New South Wales

Location and Discovery
A crashed helicopter was located in dense bushland north of Drake, in the Tenterfield area of north-east New South Wales, around 2:00 PM on Saturday. The site is approximately three hours' drive south-west from Brisbane.

Flight Details and Search
The Robinson R44 helicopter departed the Gold Coast at approximately 9:00 AM on Friday, destined for Mudgee. Police received reports at 8:00 PM that the aircraft had not reached its destination, initiating a multi-agency search.

The search involved SES crews, a rescue helicopter, police, and VRA Rescue crews conducting air and ground operations. The helicopter was last observed flying over the Cataract National Park area in Boorook, approximately 55km north of Tenterfield, on Friday afternoon.

Recovery and Casualty
Following the discovery of the wreckage, a body was located at approximately 1:00 PM on Sunday, nearly 24 hours later. The body is believed to be that of the 77-year-old pilot, who was the sole occupant. A recovery operation is in progress, supported by PolAir and Police Rescue.

Investigation Status
The ATSB has commenced an investigation with safety investigators from Brisbane and Canberra. Their activities will include:

  • A site survey and wreckage examination.
  • Retrieval of components for further analysis at the ATSB's Canberra facilities.
  • Interviews with involved parties and witnesses.
  • Collection of pilot and aircraft maintenance records, flight tracking data, and weather data.