Benson B-8M Gyrocopter, N/A, Penfield, VIC., 6 January 1985

The pilot had been advised that the aircraft propeller was defective and he indicated to witnesses that he intended only to conduct taxying. However, the aircraft was seen to become airborne and start to fly a circuit. On base leg the engine noise grew louder and the aircraft fell to the ground with the rotor stationary. Wreckage examination revealed that part of the propeller had separated in flight and the remaining propeller section had impacted the rotor following failure of the engine mounts due to excessive vibration.