Tribute to ‘happy, vibrant’ brothers in plane tragedy
Two brothers killed in a light plane crash have been remembered as “exceptional” young men with “extraordinary” talent.
Pilot Luke Smith, 20, his 16-year-old brother Benny, from Tongala in central Victoria, and cousin Dusty Daly, 15, died in the crash in Victoria’s east Gippsland on Saturday.
Their aircraft was seen circling at Tinamba West, 200km east of Melbourne, before crashing into a paddock and bursting into flames about 5.45pm.
Tongala Football and Netball Club paid tribute to the brothers’ contribution to their community.
“Two beautiful, happy, vibrant, talented and loved boys from Tongala lives have been cut tragically short,” a statement read.
“Familiar faces growing up in Tonny, attending kindergarten, TPS and making contributions to our local clubs.
“Their absence will leave an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew and loved them.”
Luke was remembered as “an exceptional young man, whose smile would light up the room”.
“Known for his drive, intelligence and unwavering love for his family, friends, sport, and flying,” the club said.
“We will forever miss seeing Luke jump over a pack, deliver fast-paced bowling and hit 6s out of the ground.”
Benny was said to be a quiet achiever with “extraordinary talent and a bright future ahead of him”.
“A humble yet fierce competitor, he was the ultimate team player who always gave his all,” the statement read.
“We will miss watching him weave his way out of a pack, display his keen eye for a goal, and deliver those crucial partnership-breaking wickets.”
Family members of the three victims, Alistair Smith and Leonie Smith and Amy and Mathew Daly, earlier detailed their grief in a statement.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the loss of Luke Smith (20), Tongala, his brother Benny Smith (16), Tongala, and their cousin Dusty Daly (15), Tinamba West, on Saturday 16th November,” the families said.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for our family and we kindly request privacy as we navigate through our grief.
“Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by this loss, and we ask for your understanding as we focus on supporting one another during this challenging period.”
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is investigating the crash, describing the plane as an “amateur-built light aircraft”.
A team of investigators specialising in aircraft operations and maintenance will probe what happened.
They will examine the wreckage, interview witnesses, comb through flight tracking data, examine other records and take pieces of the aircraft away for further examination in Canberra.
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