Boss,
I ask the question how does one remain within 3 nm radius of a non-lit aerodrome at 4.40 am. No strong town lights, no farm lights, little or no cars on the roadway.
Nothing to give you a reference to remain close to the departure airport while circling while trying to get above the LSALT..
No doubt questions that the ATSB report will tell us very interested spectators and fellow pilots.
One leans from the mistakes of others.
R