Investigations are continuing into the cause of a light plane crash that claimed the life of British-born pilot Andy Shepherd at West Maitland on Sunday.
Mr Shepherd, 44, who is survived by a young family, was remembered as a skilled and experienced pilot.
He was also a highly regarded aeronautical engineer.
It is thought the Osprey 2 amphibious aircraft that Mr Shepherd was flying developed engine problems about 15 minutes after taking off from Royal Newcastle Aero Club.
Residents rushed to the scene and removed the pilot, performing CPR until paramedics arrived, but he could not be saved.
Civil Aviation Safety Authority is working with police and the coroner to establish the cause of the crash. The investigation is likely to take several months to complete.
