considering the terrain in that area, the chute was the better option, unless sure of making Katoomba airstrip. sure, there are a few roads, but lined with light poles, wires, and rail line infrastructure and trees, lots of trees. even after the bushfires that go through there regularly, you think they might consider trimming back a few..
i even get a little worried in my savannah crossing the blue mountains west of here, and i can put it down in 50 to 60 mtrs! then again, if i hold it in a deep stall, it will descend at no more than 1500ft, min. its why its called an aluminium parachute.