Failed rescue mission of the A2-378

The Failed rescue mission of the A2-378 occurred during the Queensland floods of 1974. A Royal Australian Air Force Bell UH-1H Iroquois helicopter (A2-378) operated by No 9 Squadron RAAF from Amberley was deployed to help with urgent flood rescue operations.

While flying near Stanthorpe, the helicopter experienced mechanical failure forcing the pilot to attempt a forced landing on the slopping tree strewn terrain which formed part of the Finlay family’s rural property, ‘Cooinda’.

Of the six personnel aboard the helicopter, Vietnam veterans Sergeant Peter Vidler died at the scene of the accident and Flight Lieutenant Reginald Van Leuven succumbed to his injuries the following day. The remaining four aircraftmen sustained serious injuries but survived the crash.

A memorial plaque instigated by Mrs. Vidler with the help of the No. 9 Squadron RAAF now stands on the spot where the crash happened as a permanent memorial to the failed rescue mission of the A2-378.

Read about Southern Downs Military History here.