Vollies praised for crash rescue efforts

Local sea-going volunteers have been thanked for their efforts in the search after a fatal crash in the Port Hedland shipping channel earlier this year.

The Volunteer Marine Rescue Service Port Hedland was presented with $25,000 by Aviator Group last week, for their services after the crash of a helicopter, 35km north-west of Port Hedland on March 14.

A pilot died and another was rescued after the helicopter operating in the vicinity of a bulk carrier crashed into the water during a marine pilot transfer.

Aviator Group chairman Douglas Potter praised their efforts and said VMRSPH was vital in the search working 16 hours during the first day and 13 hours the second day.

VMRSPH commander Zac Slaughter said the funding would make a significant contribution to a $200,000 refit of the Iron Pride rescue vessel.

An Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation of the crash is continuing.