Summary
The aircraft commenced operations from an agricultural airstrip on Warrawee Station at about 1100
hours on the day of the accident and, on each flight, some 860 kg of superphosphate was uplifted and spread on
properties in the area. At about 1200 hours, when 13 flights had been completed, operations ceased temporarily
while the personnel concerned had a meal break. The aircraft was then refuelled, operations recommenced
about 1230 hours and six further flights were completed. After being reloaded with superphosphate, the aircraft
commenced another take-off but at a point some 44 metres along the take-off path, the nose wheel support
assembly collapsed. The aircraft skidded for 7 metres on the collapsed assembly until the structure dug into
the ground and the aircraft nosed over. The pilot's compartment was partially crushed as the aircraft came to
rest in an inverted position.
