Winton Sportsman, AUF 10-0452, Hope Island QLD, 5 February 1989

The pilot was conducting a scenic flight in the Hope Island area when the engine lost power. He was able to find a suitable area and carry out a successful forced landing. On inspection of the aircraft the pilot found that the spark plug lead had become detached. He reconnected the lead and after checking that it was secure commenced a takeoff. On climbing through 100 feet the engine again lost power. The pilot was forced to attempt a ditching, but during the approach the aircraft struck trees and spun into the water. This accident was not the subject of an on-site investigation.