Background
The aircraft was engaged in spreading superphosphate over undulating country south of the Wyangala Dam. The section being treated was approximately one mile from the airstrip. The pilot had completed three sorties since commencing operations on the morning of the accident.
Accident Sequence
After the fourth load had been spread, the aircraft was heard returning to the strip. Suddenly, the engine noise ceased and simultaneously a loud thud was heard by two loader drivers at the strip. The aircraft had crashed in the spreading area, striking the ground in a very steep nose-down attitude.
Investigation
There were no witnesses to the flight path of the aircraft immediately prior to impact. Examination of the wreckage did not reveal any malfunction that may have caused or contributed to the accident. The official cause of the accident has not been determined. Investigators suggested a possible explanation: the pilot may have attempted a turning maneuver from which he was unable to recover in the available height.