What happened
On 22 September 2025, at 1747 local time, the pilot of a Robinson R22 helicopter was conducting mustering operations on a cattle station near Century Mine, Queensland. Weather conditions were clear with a 10–15 kt wind from the south.
After a short stop in a designated take-off and landing location, in a dry creek bed to allow cattle to cross, the pilot commenced lift-off. The pilot reported that the wind conditions at this time became ‘quite gusty’.
While the helicopter was in the hover at 35 ft, the pilot observed a small limb of a nearby tree moving toward the helicopter in the wind. Attempting to avoid the tree limb, the pilot manoeuvred the helicopter to the left, however the tree limb contacted the tail rotor. The helicopter subsequently conducted two 360° spins and collided with a nearby wire fence, resulting in a roll over to the right (Figure 1). The helicopter was substantially damaged in the accident, with damage to the right skid, tail boom, main and tail rotor systems and fuselage. The pilot sustained serious injuries.
Figure 1: Damage to helicopter
Source: Operator
Safety message
Helicopter pilots conducting mustering operations will often conduct multiple landings for short durations for various reasons, such as allowing cattle to cross in this occurrence. Frequent monitoring of environmental conditions such as changing wind conditions is necessary to ensure a safe take-off, particularly in confined areas.
Although the site was familiar to the pilot, operations in confined areas present challenges and increased risks for operating crew. The physical characteristics of a confined area site not only increase the risk of controlled flight into obstacles but limit the options available to the pilot in the event of a loss of performance during critical phases of flight.
About this report
Decisions regarding whether to conduct an investigation, and the scope of an investigation, are based on many factors, including the level of safety benefit likely to be obtained from an investigation. For this occurrence, no investigation has been conducted and the ATSB did not verify the accuracy of the information. A brief description has been written using information supplied in the notification and any follow-up information in order to produce a short summary report, and allow for greater industry awareness of potential safety issues and possible safety actions.