Perhaps some memories need to be refreshed by examining the original BASI crash report. Particular importance needs to be given to Sec 7, "Relevant Factors" (at the bottom of the report) - which is, in essence, a neat summary of the major reasons for the crash of MDX.
The crash of MDX had nothing to do with the RAAF culture, failures on the part of military ATC, or regulations of the day - but a lot to do with a pilot struggling to control a crippled, iced-up aircraft - after having made some poor decisions, mostly centred around get-home-itis, when he was very aware of numerous problems that seriously impacted the control and flyability of his aircraft - as well as making a decision to fly into known and reported icing conditions, in an aircraft not equipped with airframe de-icing equipment.
One has to keep in mind that more than 90% of aircraft accidents are directly caused by pilot error, and the pilot of MDC could have made some far better decisions.
The crash of MDX was caused purely by a combination of icing, mechanical failure, and multiple poor decisions by the pilot.
It is sad the victims and aircraft have never been found, but to include this fact in the title is aggrandisement at its best. Dick, I expected better from someone of your status.
ATSB - BASI Aircraft Accident Investigation Summary Report - VH-MDX