Collision with terrain involving a Robinson R22 Alpha, VH-HEB, Amata Station, South Australia, on 16 November 1993

The helicopter was being used for yarding cattle, operating in a gusty 20-25 knot wind, when the pilot inadvertently turned downwind. As the helicopter began to sink the pilot made every attempt to correct the situation but was unable to regain control at the low operating height. The helicopter struck the ground with the front of the left hand skid, cartwheeled and came to a stop lying on its right hand side. The main rotor was probably in an over-pitched condition prior to impact. The pilot, who was the only occupant and wearing a flying helmet, was uninjured.