Yes Fraser Shannon was a great bloke and a very thorough pilot and taught me a lot about aircraft navigation as I used to train with him when I was out at Bankstown Helicopters doing my CPL training.
He used to be a carpenter and as I understand built the Bankstown Helicopters hangers and I remember the day when he went full time as a helicopter pilot dropping his carpentry career.
Out of all the pilots there, Terry McGowan and Fraser Shannon were my favourite instructors to fly with because they passed on a lot of wisdom and skill. Unfortunately he has left behind 2 kids and a wife and I just hope that they will be able to cope in the coming years without too much pain.
And the uncanny thing is that when I was driving to work the other day, I heard Fraser's voice on 2WS, because he was advertising fundraising for Child Flight or Care Flight.....whereever he did his air-medical work (not sure).
Anyway Fraser old mate, you taught me a lot and I will never forget you. Also my condolences go to the 18 year old student that died with him. A very sad indeed.
RIP