Tragedy Strikes: Four Feared Dead in Whitsundays Military Helicopter Crash

Four feared dead after Australian military helicopter crash in Whitsundays

By Cloe Read

Updated July 29, 2023 — 9.03am first published at 8.04am

Four people are feared dead after a military helicopter crashed near Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays during a training exercise involving Australian and US forces.

The Australian MRH-90 helicopter crashed into waters near the island around 10.30pm on Friday while participating in the Talisman Sabre military exercise. The second helicopter involved in the exercise immediately initiated a search, but as of Saturday morning, the Australian crew was still missing.

Defence Minister Richard Marles, while deeply saddened by the incident, assured that the families of the four aircrew have been notified and expressed his thoughts and hopes for their well-being. Minister Marles further emphasized the seriousness and risks associated with military exercises, acknowledging that while necessary for the readiness of the military, they can bring about tragic consequences.

Support and Confidence in Search and Rescue Efforts

In a joint statement issued by Defence Minister Marles and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, they expressed their utmost confidence in the professionalism and skill of the search and rescue team. They also extended their thoughts and prayers to the loved ones of the missing crew members and appealed for the public to keep hope alive as the search and rescue operation continues.

Australian Defence Force Chief Angus Campbell described the crash as a “terrible moment” and assured that the focus is currently on finding the missing crew and providing support to their families. He expressed deep appreciation for the assistance and collaboration provided by various civil agencies, including the Queensland Police, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, the public, and the US allies involved in the search and rescue operation.

Previous Incidents and Safety Concerns

This tragic incident recalls a previous crash earlier this year when an MRH-90 Taipan helicopter crashed into Jervis Bay on the NSW South Coast during a late-night counterterrorism training exercise, resulting in minor injuries to two of the 10 Defence Force personnel on board. The Australian National Audit Office has previously highlighted concerns regarding the MRH-90 Taipan project.

Minister Marles had previously acknowledged the age of the MRH-90 helicopters in the Defence Force and announced plans to replace them with Black Hawks. However, this incident underscores the ongoing need for continuous improvement and vigilance in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of military operations.

Talisman Sabre Exercise and the Australia-US Military Alliance

The Talisman Sabre military exercise, which will continue until August 4, is one of the largest and most complex exercises undertaken by Australia and the United States. Involving thousands of personnel from both defence forces, this exercise plays a vital role in maintaining the strategic readiness and cooperation between the two countries.

The incident coincides with the Australia-US Ministerial (AUSMIN) consultations taking place in Brisbane this weekend. The AUSMIN consultations serve as a crucial platform for discussing and setting the strategic direction for the military alliance between Australia and the United States.

Conclusion

This tragic helicopter crash serves as a solemn reminder of the risks and sacrifices associated with military training exercises. It highlights the need for continuous improvement in safety measures and the importance of ongoing investment in modernizing equipment and technology to ensure the protection of personnel involved in such operations.

As the search and rescue operation continues in the Whitsundays, the Australian public stands in support of the families and loved ones of the missing crew members. They remain hopeful for positive news amidst this tragic event, while also acknowledging the dedication, professionalism, and collaboration of the search and rescue teams, civil agencies, and the US allies involved in the operation.