Collision with terrain involving a Robinson Helicopter Co R22 BETA, VH-LOT, 28km SE Armraynald, (ALA), QLD on 15 May 1997

The owner reported that the tail rotor of the helicopter came into contact with a small tree as the pilot was pushing some cattle into a yard. The helicopter then spun out of control to the ground, landing heavily on the left skid before rolling over. The pilot was able exit the helicopter without injury. The owner advised the helicopter was damaged beyond economical repair. Post flight examination showed that one of the tail rotor blades had separated in flight when it came into contact with the tree.