URGENT UPDATE: A close associate of reality TV star Matt Wright has denied any involvement in a cover-up related to a tragic helicopter crash that occurred in February 2022. Testifying in the Supreme Court in Darwin, Jai Tomlinson, a construction contractor and helicopter pilot, stated he could not recall discussing the crash, despite evidence from covert recordings indicating otherwise.
The notorious incident claimed the life of Wright’s friend and co-star, Chris “Willow” Wilson, during a crocodile-egg collecting mission in the Northern Territory’s Arnhem Land. The pilot of the helicopter, Sebastian Robinson, suffered severe injuries and is now a paraplegic. Prosecutors allege that Wright is facing serious charges for attempting to obstruct justice, fearing that investigators would uncover discrepancies in his helicopter’s flying-hour records.
Wright, known for his role on Outback Wrangler, has pleaded not guilty to three counts related to the alleged falsification of maintenance records. The prosecution claims that Wright’s helicopters had flying-hour meters disconnected to extend operational hours beyond legal limits while paperwork was allegedly falsified. Importantly, these charges do not implicate Wright in causing the crash or Wilson’s death.
During the testimony, Tomlinson expressed that a past car accident had impacted his memory, stating, “I don’t think back on the past… I’m always looking forward.” He was confronted with secretly recorded conversations from September 2022, where his voice was heard discussing matters with Wright. However, he maintained that he could not recall the context of these discussions.
Under cross-examination by crown prosecutor Jason Gullaci SC, Tomlinson consistently stated, “I don’t remember,” when asked about critical details. He denied knowledge of any document destruction or the underreporting of flight hours. When pressed about a recording where Wright expressed concerns of people “squealing,” Tomlinson appeared confused, interpreting it only in the context of his daughters’ yelling.
Gullaci challenged Tomlinson’s claims, suggesting he was deliberately evading questions to protect Wright. “You know very well ‘squealing’ means giving someone up,” he asserted. Despite the pressure, Tomlinson insisted he was not being evasive and had no intention of hiding information that could implicate his friend.
The trial continues as the court examines the nature of Tomlinson’s testimony and the implications for Wright. This high-profile case has drawn significant media attention, raising awareness about aviation safety regulations and the potential consequences of falsifying records.
As this story develops, it highlights the urgent need for accountability in aviation safety and the human cost behind these allegations. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding legal battle.
