Shortly before 3pm Sunday 17 July 2016 a light aircraft taking off from the Bridport airport crashed into an open paddock.

The aircraft had two occupants. The co-pilot was uninjured as a result of the crash, but the pilot has sustained suspected spinal/back injuries. He has been removed from the aircraft and treated at the scene, before being evacuated by helicopter. His injuries are considered serious but not life threatening.

The cause of the crash is unknown at this point.

The crash has been reported to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau for investigation.