UPDATE: A critical trial is underway as pilot Sebastian Robinson faces intense questioning regarding his cocaine use during flights with reality TV star Matt Wright. The trial commenced in the Supreme Court of Darwin, where Robinson, now a paraplegic following a deadly helicopter crash in February 2022, is giving evidence via video link.
Robinson was severely injured in a crash that claimed the life of his co-star, Chris “Willow” Wilson, while filming for the show Outback Wrangler in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. As the trial unfolds, Wright has pleaded not guilty to three counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice, raising urgent concerns about the integrity of flight operations.
Prosecutors allege that Wright was concerned investigators would uncover that flight-time meters were routinely disconnected, allowing pilots to exceed legal flying hours. Robinson revealed to the court that Wilson tragically fell from a sling under the helicopter during a crocodile egg collection, leading to the fatal crash.
During cross-examination, senior defense counsel David Edwardson KC presented text messages from Robinson’s phone, indicating regular discussions about cocaine supply. Robinson, who admitted to using cocaine approximately twice a year, faced accusations of being a “party animal” leading up to the crash.
One text message read, “footie players in town and want bags,” prompting questions about potential cocaine trafficking. Robinson denied any involvement, stating, “Are you implying that I’m a drug dealer? No.” He also described a message stating he was “crook as a dog,” to which a friend jokingly replied, referencing Wright, “snorting too much coke out of Matty’s arse.” Wright chuckled upon hearing this in court.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, just ten days after the crash, Wright allegedly visited Robinson in the hospital and asked him to alter flying hour records. Robinson firmly declined this request, emphasizing that the charges against Wright do not implicate him in causing the crash or its tragic outcomes.
The trial continues, with significant public interest as the details unfold. The impact of this case is felt deeply, not just by those involved, but by the entire community and fans of the show. As the court proceedings progress, many are left wondering what implications these revelations will have on the future of reality TV production and safety standards in aviation.
Stay tuned for further updates as this urgent case develops in the coming days.
