gaunty...
Fair comment on CASA. And I agree that there are many fine, professional and dedicated staff there who must be absolutely tearing their hair out seeing the antics of the idiot management team that are presently on public display.
if you are able to intellectually separate the cause, IMHO pilot error
What are the ROOT CAUSES of the pilot error that you're referring to gaunty? Because the way that I'm seeing and hearing it, the buck doesn't stop with the pilot. I'll give you a hint:
The operator’s procedures and flight planning guidance managed risk consistent with regulatory provisions but did not minimise the risks associated with aeromedical operations to remote islands. In addition, clearer guidance on the in-flight management of previously unforecast, but deteriorating, destination weather might have assisted the crew to consider and plan their diversion options earlier.
Source: ATSB Transport Safety Report AO-2009-072
What the ATSB found
PS. Don't underestimate Senator Nash either.