Reality TV personality Matt Wright is facing trial for allegedly attempting to obstruct justice in the wake of a tragic helicopter crash that resulted in the death of his co-star, Chris “Willow” Wilson, and left pilot Sebastian Robinson seriously injured. This incident occurred in February 2022 while collecting crocodile eggs in the Northern Territory’s remote swamps.
During proceedings at the Supreme Court in Darwin, Robinson, who now uses a wheelchair, testified via video link about a visit from Wright to his hospital bed shortly after the crash. At the time, Robinson was heavily sedated and undergoing treatment for his injuries. He recounted that Wright requested him to falsify flight hour records by transferring Wright’s flying hours from his crashed helicopter onto Robinson’s aircraft, which was not equipped for the same purpose.
The prosecution argues that Wright was anxious that investigators might uncover discrepancies in flight-time records, specifically that meters were routinely disconnected to allow for excess flying hours. Additionally, there were claims of falsified paperwork related to these hours. Robinson remarked that while he initially considered Wright’s request, he ultimately felt uncomfortable with the idea and declined to assist on the following visit.
Wright allegedly also requested Robinson to review his phone and erase certain information. Robinson described his emotional state during these interactions as fearful and unsure of whom to trust, attributing the crash and its aftermath as the most challenging experience of his life.
It was noted in court that due to COVID-19 restrictions, Wright, who opposed vaccination, could not legally enter Arnhem Land, which necessitated that Robinson undertake egg-collecting flights there instead. Furthermore, there were compliance issues with Wright’s hospital visit, as he would have been required to present proof of vaccination and to undergo testing prior to entering the facility.
Wright has pleaded not guilty to three charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice. Importantly, the charges in question do not implicate him in the crash itself, nor do they supersede the circumstances surrounding Wilson’s tragic death or Robinson’s severe injuries. As the trial continues, these revelations highlight the complex legal and ethical ramifications stemming from the accident, alongside the personal horrors faced by those involved.