Oil system event involving a Piper PA-28R-200, VH-TRZ, 37 km south-west of Mudgee Aerodrome, New South Wales, on 26 December 1997

The pilot of the PA28 had departed Wallan for a flight to Coolangatta. At approximately 37 km southwest of Mudgee, the aircraft engine began to run rough following a sudden loss of engine oil pressure. A burning smell and an increase in indicated engine temperature was also evident. Due to the inhospitable terrain ahead to Mudgee, the pilot decided to conduct a forced landing in a nearby field.

The pilot broadcast a distress call to Sydney Flight Service (FS) and a Distress Phase was declared. Due to the field length and surface conditions, the pilot chose to carry out a 'wheels up' landing. This was successfully carried out and the pilot and passenger vacated the aircraft without injury. The ELT was automatically activated. Upon telephone confirmation of the situation of the pilot and passenger and deactivation of the ELT, FS cancelled the Distress Phase.