Australian and New Zealander survive helicopter crash in Borneo
Michael Betteridge and Hugh Page survived when their helicopter crashed while collecting water for fires in Indonesia.
An Australian and a New Zealander survived after their helicopter crashed into the Barito River on Borneo yesterday. Michael Betteridge and Hugh Page were collecting water for fires when the crash happened in South Kalimantan province.
Video shows rescue workers pulling both men from the water soon after. Betteridge and Page were treated at a military hospital.
An Indonesian crew member, navigator Yayan Supyansuri, died. Australian authorities confirmed they are helping Betteridge.
- Yayan Supyansuri, navigator
- Deceased
- Worst in more than a decade
- Fire season severity
Why it mattersThe crash shows the risks for firefighters in Indonesia. The country is facing its worst fire season in over a decade. The fires have spread toxic smoke across the region.
AustraliaAn Australian citizen was involved in the crash in Indonesia; DFAT is in close contact with local authorities on his behalf.
Corroborated bysmh.com.au
