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AAP
Politics
Ethan James

Crocodile wrangler remembered on crash anniversary

Matt Wright has paid tribute to his mate Chris 'Willow' Wilson on the anniversary of his death. (Aaron Bunch/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Outback wrangler star Matt Wright has paid tribute to friend Chris 'Willow' Wilson, one year after his death in a helicopter crash in a remote part of the Northern Territory.

Wright and two other men are facing criminal charges following the crash in west Arnhem Land on February 28, 2022.

Mr Wilson, 34 and a father of two, was dangling below the Robinson R44 on a 30-metre line during a mission collecting crocodile eggs when the chopper went down.

Wright shared a video montage on social media platform Instagram on Tuesday dedicated to Mr Wilson.

"Willow lived for adventure, from the very first day I met him he had a sparkle in his eye that would carry him through some of the most amazing experiences across the world," he wrote.

"We miss our mate more than anything and his memory will live on through all of us.

"Willow will go down in the history books as one of Australia's truest legends. Love ya brother it's only time and will (sic) see each other again."

Wright, who is facing several charges in relation to the crash including perverting the course of justice and destruction of evidence, is expected to appear in an NT court on March 8.

Wright's lawyer has previously told media he strenuously denies the charges and will be defending them.

The helicopter was one of three collecting eggs on the day before it was found by one of the other crews after failing to respond to radio calls.

Pilot Sebastian Robinson was seriously injured and airlifted to Maningrida, before being transferred to hospital in Darwin.

NT police officer Neil Mellon and Michael Burbidge, a pilot who had also been on the Outback Wrangler TV series, have also been charged in relation to the crash.

An Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation is ongoing.

Its preliminary report indicated the accident happened when the helicopter's main rotor blade struck and cut through a tree trunk multiple times before the aircraft hit the ground.

Outback Wrangler chronicles the capture and transport of dangerous animals that pose a threat to people, including crocodiles and buffalo.

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