Summary:
- An Australian Army helicopter and MRH 90 ditched near Hamilton Island during a two-helicopter mission, leaving four aircrew missing.
- Search and rescue operations are underway, and the families of the aircrew have been notified.
- Defense exercises are essential but come with inherent risks.
- The gravity of serving in the nation's uniform is deeply felt at this moment.
- Appreciation expressed for the assistance from various agencies, including the public and US allies.
We meet this day with a heavy heart. Last night, just after 10.30, an Australian Army helicopter and MRH 90 ditched in waters close to Hamilton Island. The helicopter was engaging in a two-helicopter mission. There were four aircrew aboard. Because there was another helicopter present, a search and rescue was able to commence immediately. As we speak to you now, the four aircrew are yet to be found.
The search and rescue continues. The families of the four aircrew have been notified of this incident. Our hopes and thoughts are very much with the aircrew and their families. Our hopes are very much with the efforts of the search and rescue crews as they go about their work right now. These are early days, and there will be much more information to be provided about this incident. But defense exercises, which are so necessary for the readiness of our Defence Force, are serious and carry risk.
A Terrible Moment for the Nation
And as we desperately hope for better news during the course of this day, we are reminded of the gravity of the act which comes with wearing our nation's uniform. Our focus at the moment is finding our people and supporting their families and the rest of our team. This is indeed a terrible moment. We deeply appreciate the assistance that has been provided by a variety of civil agencies, the Queensland Police, the Australian Maritime Safety Agency, and the public, as well as our US allies, all of whom have come together to assist, to continue the search and rescue, and to find our people.
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