Disbelief at fatal helicopter crash

A well-known helicopter pilot related to a New Zealand pilot killed in Western Australia says it is hard to believe two small helicopters could collide in the vast outback skies.

Matthew Warrick William Funnell, 39, originally from Wanganui, was killed on Tuesday when two helicopters apparently crashed into each other while mustering on a Western Australian cattle station.

Another pilot, Australian Troy Aarron Wareham, 37, was also killed. The wrecks of the two aircraft were found 30m apart.

Matt Funnell's cousin is John Funnell, managing director of Helicopter Services BOP - which provides air ambulance services throughout the central North Island.

He told NZPA today the family didn't know a great deal about the accident but it was difficult to believe two helicopters had collided in the open outback skies.

Matt had a partner and three children and it was tough for those left behind, he said.

"For us in aviation you never get used to these things. And it comes as a bit of a shock when you lose a family member. He was a good keen young guy."

Matt's father Warrick Funnell, who lives in Wanganui, told The Dominion Post newspaper that his son was an adventurer from a young age.

"If there was something happening, he was right in the middle of it. He was a bloody good bloke and it's such a waste."

Matt knew low flying mustering was dangerous but made it as safe as he could, he said.

Matt Funnell's body is expected to be returned to New Zealand within a week.

Australia's Air Transport Safety Bureau was yesterday inspecting the crash site and Western Australian police will conduct an investigation into the crash.

- NZPA