From: parkes.yourguide.com.au
Helicopter crash
Friday, 3 February 2006
Two Parkes Shire Council employees undertaking an aerial weed inspection along with the pilot of a helicopter were killed instantly yesterday when their aircraft crashed on the Parkes-Orange Road after hitting an overhead power line.
All three victims were incinerated when the helicopter cockpit burst into flames on impact. It is believed the rotor-blades seperated after coming into contact with the power-line causing the cabin to flip and crash to the ground.
Parkes Shire Council had engaged South West Helicopter Services based in Cootamundra to carry out inspections of inaccessible areas for noxious weeds.
The tragedy occurred at approximately 9.30am in the Bumberry Hills 25 kilometres east of Parkes on the Orange Road. It is understood the helicopter - a Bell Jet Ranger aircraft - took off from Parkes Airport
An eyewitness to the tragedy was yesterday afternoon assisting authorities with their inquires.
While sections of the helicopter propeller were strewn throughout the area, the main cabin of the aircraft crashed into a small ravine that had been prepared as a firebreak.
A small grass fire erupted but because of the humid conditions and lack of wind was easily extinguished by firefighters - despite scorching 40C temperatures.
Parkes Shire Council was yesterday still trying to come to terms with the tragedy.
Mayor Robert Wilson said councillors and staff had been shocked and upset when informed of the crash.
Cr Wilson extended a brief statement.