Merv Mudge remembered as ‘larger than life character’ after fatal Southern Downs plane crash

An ace pilot and former air force hero has been remembered as a ‘larger than life character’ following his tragic death in the Southern Downs last week.

Tributes have flown in for former air force pilot Merv Mudge after a tragic plane crash last week.

A retired air force pilot and loving husband has been remembered as a ‘larger than life character’ after his tragic death last week in the Southern Downs.

Merv Mudge, 63, was sadly pronounced dead by police after a horror plane crash last Thursday at Palgrave in the Southern Downs, on October 19.

Mr Mudge was the only occupant of the kit-built Jabiru aircraft at the time of crash.

The man’s wife, Aly Mudge, took to social media to express happiness for the sympathy and support friends and family had shown in such a tough time and sadness at the death of her husband.

“Fly high my baby I know you’ll always be with me, and I’ll never be alone,” Mrs Mudge wrote.

“Rest in peace, my hero, my baby, our main man, legend, flight engineer and pilot extraordinaire.”

Mr Mudge’s piloting career would see him travel the world, where he served as a flight engineer on the RAAF’s Hercules transports and among his many exploits was being on the first humanitarian mission into Rwanda.

Mr Mudge and his wife Aly enjoying a cuppa. (Photo: Facebook)

Mr Mudge’s daughter Sheridan said the pilot lived an exciting full life and was one of a kind.

“A character with a heart of gold who could light up any social event. I’m proud to be his daughter,” Ms Mudge said.

“My Dad. The man. The legend. Forever in the sky.”

‘My Hero’: Tributes have flown in for former air force pilot Merv Mudge after a tragic plane crash last week. (Photo: Facebook)

Family friend Katrina Battilana wrote: “I have no words. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Merv was a larger than life character who left a lasting impression on so many people. May he fly high and God's grace get you through this extremely challenging time.”

Another wrote, “Merv has such an impact on everyone who knew him. We are at a loss and we are with you in your grief.”

An RAAF airman who knew Mr Mudge wrote, “Great friend, good Australian, professional airman- and now, a missing mate.”

The remains of a shocking plane crash at Palgrave, near Warwick, on October 19, 2023.

Reports of a plane crash surfaced around 12pm last Thursday, and it is understood the aircraft bursting into flames on impact, leaving a chunk of the paddock burnt.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau will not investigate the crash as it only examines accidents involving recreational aircraft where an investigation has the potential to highlight wider safety issues.

Forensic investigators will work with officials from Recreational Aviation Australia to determine the cause of the crash.