Loss of control involving a Cessna A185E, VH-DGL, Branxton (ALA), New South Wales, on 9 August 1997

While taking off for parachute dropping operation, directional control was lost and the aircraft ground looped. The left main landing gear collapsed, substantially damaging the aircraft. All six occupants evacuated the aircraft without injury.

The pilot subsequently reported that, as take-off power was applied, the aircraft started to swing to the left. He applied right rudder to correct the swing, but the aircraft then swung rapidly to the right. He was unable to counteract the swing and closed the throttle to stop the take-off. However, the left wheel ran into a culvert and was torn off before the aircraft could be stopped.