Summary
The pilot, an American national, had gained his helicopter flying experience mainly as a member of the
United States military forces. Prior to obtaining employment with the Operator in June, 1973, he obtained
Australian commercial helicopter and fixed wing pilot licences as well as an agricultural pilot rating for fixed
wing aircraft. He subsequently undertook a short additional course of helicopter flying and was granted
approval to conduct cattle mustering operations. Following a period of operation under supervision, the pilot
commenced un-supervised operations in VH-WHR on 22 September, 1973 and, on the day of the accident, he
was engaged in mustering cattle to a base camp on a property adjacent to Calwynyardah Station.
