11/06/2026
Today we remember and pay tribute to the eighteen (18) men that died in the worst peacetime disaster in Australian Army Aviation history. 30 years ago.
Thankyou to the amazing team at the Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans’ Association Ltd for the following post 🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺
On the 12 June 1996 two Black Hawks from the 5th Aviation Regiment collided in darkness over the High Range near Townsville during Exercise DAY ROTOR 96.
The men involved were the cream of the Australian Defence Force: highly skilled soldiers from the elite Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) and dedicated aircrew from the 5th Aviation Regiment. These were, as described in later commemorations, "Australia's finest," entrusted with the nation's most demanding and sensitive tasks.
Eighteen men died: fifteen from the Special Air Service Regiment, three aviators. They weren’t in combat. They were preparing for it.
They were training for a very specific mission - counter-terrorism preparedness in the lead-up to the 2000 Sydney Olympics. This was no mere drill; it was intensive preparation for potential real-world hostage recovery scenarios. This direct link to a significant international event underscored the immense pressure on these units to hone their capabilities to a razor's edge. The insertion was at night, low-level, under night vision goggles in rugged terrain. It was complex. It was dangerous. And it was necessary. The very nature of such elite training, designed to forge units capable of operating under extreme pressure, inherently involves a high degree of accepted operational risk.
As dusk settled over North Queensland, the six Black Hawk helicopters of the formation lifted off from RAAF Townsville around 1830 hours, their rotors beating a path towards FSB Barbara and the critical night phase of Exercise DAY ROTOR 96. Their mission was to simulate a rapid insertion of SASR operators. The plan required the formation to intercept a designated Initial Point (IP) before commencing their final run-in to the landing zone.
A critical phase of the approach occurred at the "30-second call," roughly 60 to 75 seconds from the objective. At this point, the formation transitioned into a line abreast configuration. Black 1, the Flight Lead, was on the left. Black 2 and Black 3 were to his right, maintaining a separation of just two rotor diameters – a precise and demanding formation, especially under NVG conditions.
The finely balanced choreography of the night flight began to unravel with alarming speed. By the 30-second call, the formation was approximately 400 metres off its intended track. In response, the pilot of Black 1, the Flight Lead, initiated the first of three corrective maneuvers to the right, attempting to bring the formation back onto the correct approach to FSB Barbara.
The second of these right turns, executed just after the 30-second call, led to a dangerous convergence between Black 1 and Black 2. The peril was recognised by the aircrew in both helicopters, and for a fleeting moment, disaster was averted as separation was restored. This near-miss was a stark, instantaneous warning of the decreasing margins for error, a sign that situational awareness was becoming critically compromised.
In the terrifying final moments, desperate warnings were shouted in the cockpits. Sergeant Mark, the left-hand Loadmaster in Black 2, saw the looming disaster as Black 1 approached. He yelled, "Come right, come right, come right!" followed by "Come up, come up!" as Black 1 began to pass beneath Black 2 from behind. The pilot of Black 2 had scant seconds to react. Compounding the crisis, he was uncertain of Black 3's precise position to his right, leading him to believe a sharp evasive turn in that direction was not possible. Simultaneously, Corporal John Fraser, a loadmaster in Black 1, reportedly shouted warnings to his own pilot, calling "left, left, left," indicating they were too close, just before the aircraft inexplicably banked right into the collision. This confusion about the third aircraft's position, restricting Black 2's options, mirrored the "fog of war," where imperfect information under extreme duress can paralyze decision-making, even in a meticulously planned peacetime exercise.
The sequence - being off track, the series of corrections, the near-miss, and the final, fatal turn - illustrates a cascade of minor deviations rapidly escalating into an unrecoverable catastrophe. It was not a single, isolated error but a chain of interconnected events, each link drawing the formation closer to disaster in the unforgiving night sky.
The collision, the inferno that followed, and the immediate aftermath left an indelible scar on those who survived.
The impact was instantaneous and devastating. Black 1, the lead helicopter whose main rotor blades had struck Black 2, reportedly "exploded in mid-air, flipped on its back and hit the ground". It crashed upside down and was immediately engulfed in a ferocious fire.
Black 2, its tail rotor catastrophically shorn off by the collision, was sent into a flat, uncontrolled spin. Despite the horrific damage and the terrifying dynamics of a helicopter without its anti-torque system, Captain David Burke, the pilot of Black 2, demonstrated extraordinary skill and composure. He managed to wrestle the crippled aircraft into a crash landing in an upright position. However, relief was short-lived; Black 2 was also quickly consumed by fire.
The night was shattered by the eruption of a "massive fireball". The serene training area transformed into a scene of unimaginable horror: twisted wreckage, raging fires, and the terrifying sound of exploding ammunition from the downed aircraft.
For the survivors, many grievously injured, and for those in the remaining four helicopters of the formation, the scene was apocalyptic.
Yet, in these "most hazardous of circumstances" , the response was immediate and heroic. Survivors, soldiers from the other helicopters, and exercise staff on the ground "risked the flames and exploding ammunition to rescue their comrades and retrieve the bodies of the dead". Their actions in the face of such overwhelming peril were a testament to their training, their bonds of mateship, and their sheer human courage. In recognition of these acts, fourteen personnel would later receive official bravery decorations.
The following soldiers were awarded the following decorations after the incident.
Awarded the Star of Courage (SC)
Corporal Dominic Boyle
Corporal Gregory Kirkham
Corporal Gary Proctor
Awarded the Bravery Medal (BM)
Lance Corporal Brian Morriss
Captain Jim Ryan
Sergeant Mick Williams
Awarded the Commendation for Brave Conduct:
Staff Sergeant Nicholas Coenen
Warrant Officer Class 2 Robert McCabe
AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE COMMENDATIONS
Awarded the Chief of the Defence Force Commendation
Trooper Scott Carnie
Lance Corporal Rob Cousins
Lance Corporal Craig Naumann
Lance Corporal George Taulelei
Awarded the Chief of Army Commendation
Corporal Steven Frerk
Corporal Jamie Sharpe
Honouring Their Individuality: Personal Tributes
The true measure of a life is often found in the personal journeys undertaken and the connections made along the way. The following tributes are dedicated to remembering these servicemen as the individuals they were, each with a unique story and a distinct place in the hearts of those who knew them.
🟨 Trooper Jonathan Church, 1 Sqn SASR
Jonathan “Jon” Church, born in New South Wales on 1 September 1963, began his Army service in the Reserve in 1989 before fully committing to the Australian Regular Army, earning his place in the esteemed Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) by November 1993. He transitioned from the 1st Commando Regiment, bringing with him a character marked by profound compassion. This was most vividly demonstrated during his United Nations service in Rwanda in 1995, where he was instrumental in saving children whose parents had been massacred. This act, undertaken in the face of immense tragedy, speaks volumes about his deep-seated empathy and courage. His embodiment of ethical and compassionate soldiering was so remarkable that the Jonathan Church Ethical Soldier Award was established in his honour—a lasting testament to a man who lived his values. Survived by his father, Jon’s legacy is one of profound care for others, a humanitarian spirit that shone brightly.
🟨 Trooper David Frost, 1 Sqn SASR
David Frost, born on 28 January 1968, began his Army career on 30 June 1985. He was selected for the SASR in 1992 and posted in August that year. David had transitioned from 2/4RAR, where he held the rank of corporal, but voluntarily reverted to trooper upon joining the SASR. This decision reflected his humility and a deep commitment to serve in the SASR. David was survived by his sister, who remembers the man behind the soldier.
🟨 Trooper Timothy McDonald, 1 Sqn SASR
Timothy “Tim” McDonald, born on 4 October 1971, enlisted in the Australian Army on 10 May 1989. After successfully completing SAS selection in 1993, he was posted to the SASR on 1 July 1993 from 3RAR as a private. Tim’s admission into one of the world’s most demanding units speaks to his character, resilience, and discipline. He was survived by his father.
🟨 Corporal Mihran Avedissian, 152 Sig Sqn SASR
Mihran “Avi” Avedissian, born on 2 January 1967, migrated from Ethiopia to Australia with his parents at age three. He enlisted on 3 October 1984 and was posted to the Royal Australian Signals. In March 1987, he joined 152 Signal Squadron and completed SAS selection in 1989 from 104 Sig Sqn. His journey from migrant to SASR signaller is a tribute to his adaptability and service. Avi was survived by his mother and his partner Kylie, who was a valued member of the Campbell Barracks community and stood by him with strength and love.
🟨 Corporal Darren Smith, 152 Sig Sqn SASR
Darren Smith, born on 28 September 1968, joined the Army on 30 June 1986. He was allocated to Royal Australian Signals and posted to 152 Signal Squadron on 14 January 1990. Darren completed SAS selection in 1991, transferring from 139 Sig Sqn. He retained the rank of corporal upon posting, reflecting his professional capability. Darren was survived by his father.
🟨 Signaller Hendrik Peeters, 152 Sig Sqn SASR
Hendrik Peeters, born on 15 December 1970, enlisted on 4 May 1988 and was posted to the SASR on 16 January 1991. He completed SAS selection in February 1991 after transferring from 103 Sig Sqn. Hendrik was a devoted husband and was survived by his wife.
🟨 Corporal Andrew Constantinidis, 1 Sqn SASR
Andrew Constantinidis, born in Victoria on 18 June 1962, joined the Army Reserve in January 1986 and was later posted to the SASR in March 1990. He transitioned from 1 Commando Regiment as a lance corporal, reverting to trooper for SASR service. Known for his selflessness and courage, Andrew was a devoted husband and was survived by his wife.
🟨 Corporal Darren Oldham, 1 Sqn SASR
Darren Oldham, born on 23 October 1966, enlisted on 18 March 1987. He completed SAS selection in 1991 and was posted to SASR on 24 May 1991 from 2/4RAR as a lance corporal. He voluntarily reverted to trooper. Darren was survived by his de facto wife.
🟨 Corporal Brett Tombs, 1 Sqn SASR
Brett “Tombsy” Tombs, born in New Zealand on 18 February 1965, enlisted on 22 January 1986 and completed SAS selection in 1988. He was posted on 29 June 1988 from 5/7RAR. Brett was preparing to leave the Army to study, looking ahead to a future of learning and growth. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.
🟨 Lance Corporal Glen Hagan, 1 Sqn SASR
Glen Hagan, born on 21 November 1965, enlisted on 6 July 1988 and completed SAS selection in 1993. He was posted to SASR on 1 July 1993 from 6RAR as a lance corporal. He reverted to trooper. Glen was survived by his wife and daughter.
🟨 Lance Corporal David Johnstone, 1 Sqn SASR
David Johnstone, born on 3 October 1969, enlisted on 19 November 1986. He completed SAS selection in 1991 and was posted to SASR on 22 May 1991 from 3RAR. David was survived by his father.
🟨 Lance Corporal Gordon Callow, 1 Sqn SASR
Gordon Callow, born in Victoria on 22 December 1961, enlisted on 6 July 1988. He completed SAS selection in 1993 and was posted to SASR on 1 July 1993 from 2/4RAR as a lance corporal, later reverting to trooper. Gordon was survived by his uncle.
🟨 Captain Kelvin Hales, 5 Avn Regt
Kelvin Hales, born on 28 November 1969, enlisted on 25 October 1989. He graduated from RMC on 26 June 1991 and was posted to 5 Avn Regt in November 1993. He served in Cambodia in 1993. His career reflected commitment to leadership and service.
🟨 Captain John Berrigan, 5 Avn Regt
John Berrigan, born on 1 December 1968, began in the Army Reserve with 4/3 RNSWR on 20 May 1988. He graduated from RMC on 9 December 1992 and was posted to 5 Avn Regt on 1 January 1994. Promoted to captain on 1 January 1996, John’s career was marked by dedication and professional growth.
🟨 Corporal Michael Baker, 5 Avn Regt
Michael Baker, born on 22 March 1972, enlisted in July 1989 and was allocated to Army Aviation. He joined 1 Avn Regt after completing technical training and later 5 Avn Regt in December 1995 as a loadmaster.
🟨 Captain Timothy Stevens, 1 Sqn SASR
Timothy Stevens, born on 26 September 1966, enlisted on 26 May 1986 and was commissioned into Royal Australian Infantry on 22 January 1990. He completed SAS selection in 1994 and was posted to SASR on 1 June 1994 from 8/9RAR as a lieutenant. He was survived by his wife, daughter, and two sons.
🟨 Sergeant Hugh Ellis, 1 Sqn SASR
Hugh Ellis, born on 2 July 1960, enlisted on 8 September 1982 into RAEME. He transferred to SASR on 21 June 1989 from 3RAR after completing SAS selection. He reverted to trooper upon joining. Hugh was survived by his wife and two sons.
🟨 Corporal Michael Bird, 1 Sqn SASR
Michael Bird, born on 7 April 1968, enlisted on 11 August 1987 and completed SAS selection in 1991. He was posted to SASR on 22 May 1991 from 2/4RAR as a lance corporal. He reverted to trooper and was survived by his wife.
Their Legacies Live On
The men remembered here walked diverse paths, each distinguished by individual choices, unique personal histories, and the particular constellation of relationships that defined their worlds. While a common thread of dedication, courage, and service connected them, their truest and most enduring legacies are woven into the fabric of the lives they touched - the memories held dear by their families, the laughter and camaraderie shared with friends, and the unique imprints they left as individuals.
Their names are etched on the Black Hawk Memorial in Townsville, and for the SASR members on The Rock - the SASR memorial in Swanbourne. Quiet markers of enduring loss. See more below about each member.
“They were professionals,” said one former aviation officer. “Highly trained. And they died doing the job that makes everyone else’s job possible.”
To die in training, before the mission even begins, is no less an act of service. It’s a reminder that readiness has a cost.
My thoughts are with those killed and injured in training exercises and my thanks are to those who put their lives on the line in realistic training every day to be ready for when they will be called upon in service.
My deepest condolences to the families, loved ones and all who are feeling the weight of this loss.
Lest we forget.
Rod Hutchings
Executive Committee
Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans' Association
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Select References/ Further Reading/:
1. Koch, T. (n.d.). Survivor warned Black Hawk pilot. https://www.tony-koch.com/index.php?page=detail&id=336
(n.d. is used as no publication date is visible on the article)
2. Australian SAS Association. (n.d.). Honour roll. https://www.sasassociation.org.au/honour-roll
(Use "n.d." as no publication date is specified. This is common for live, continuously updated memorial pages.)
3. Queensland Government. (n.d.). Townsville Black Hawk Memorial. Anzac Square Memorial Galleries. https://www.anzacsquare.qld.gov.au/memorials/townsville-black-hawk-memorial
4. Reith, P. (1997, March 6). Outcome of the Board of Inquiry into the Black Hawk Training Accident [Hansard]. Australian Parliament. https://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F1997-03-06%2F0114%22
(Note: Peter Reith was the Minister for Defence at the time.)
5. Office of the Governor-General. (1997, May 23). Bravery awards – Biographical notes.https://www.gg.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-01/19970523_-_bravery_-_biographical_notes.pdf
6. Australian Army. (1997). Report of the Board of Inquiry into the fire and crash of two Black Hawk helicopters at the High Range Training Area near Townsville on 12 June 1996. Australian Government Publishing Service.https://www.austlii.edu.au/au/other/cth/AUBCPubInq/1997/1.pdf
7. P, Roberts & Clark, Graham. (1999). The 1996 Black Hawk Accident – The Technical Investigation. . (PDF) The 1996 Black Hawk Accident – The Technical Investigation
8. McLucas, A. (2002). The worst failure: Repeated failure to learn. In Proceedings of the 2002 Command and Control Research and Technology Symposium (Vol. 72). CEUR Workshop Proceedings.https://ceur-ws.org/Vol-72/067%20McLucas%20Failure.pdf
9. 9News Staff. (2016, June 12). Black Hawk disaster remembered 20 years on. 9News. https://www.9news.com.au/national/black-hawk-disaster-remembered-20-years-on/05417dcc-c515-4cf2-9da8-f2b80a5c521c
10. McLaughlin, B. (2016, June 27). Dark day. Contact Air Land & Sea. https://www.contactairlandandsea.com/2016/06/27/dark-day/
11. RAAF Radschool Association. (2019). The Blackhawk tragedy – We remember. RAAF Radschool Magazine, 67, 3. https://www.radschool.org.au/magazines/Vol67/Page3.htm
12. The Age Archives. (2020, May 29). From the Archives, 1996: Helicopter crash kills 18 soldiers and aircrew. The Age. https://www.theage.com.au/national/from-the-archives-1996-helicopter-crash-kills-18-soldiers-and-aircrew-20200529-p54xp7.html
13. Special Air Service Historical Foundation. (2021, June 12). Black Hawk helicopter disaster: 25th anniversary gift. https://www.australiansas.com/news-events/post/black-hawk-helicopter-disaster-25th-anniversary-gift/
