Outback Wrangler star Matt Wright posts emotional tribute after deadly crash

Outbreak Wrangler Matt Wright has shared a touching tribute to “one of Australia’s truest legends” a year after his death in a helicopter crash.

Outback Wrangler Matt Wright has shared an emotional tribute to his friend on the anniversary of his death in a tragic helicopter accident as he prepares to face court over the fatal crash.

Chris “Willow” Wilson was killed on the morning of February 28, 2022 while collecting crocodile eggs in a remote area of West Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.

He had been suspended in a sling from a helicopter when the aircraft crashed, killing the 34-year-old.

Outback Wrangler Matt Wright (pictured with his wife Kaia) has posted a touching tribute to his late friend. Picture: Instagram

His longtime friend and collaborator, Mr Wright, was charged with seven offences related to the death.

Police allege the Outback Wrangler star conspired to cover up the fatal crash, which he has denied.

Despite the looming legal battle, he took to social media to celebrate Mr Wilson on the one year anniversary of his death.

“1 year ago we lost a father, son, brother and mate,” he wrote on Instagram.

“Willow was a true legend that lifted the energy wherever he was, with such a positive can-do attitude (that) you thought anything was possible when he was around.”

Mr Wilson was allegedly looking for crocodile eggs when he died.

The father of two was killed a year ago.

The 34-year-old “lived for adventure” and had a “sparkle in his eyes”, Mr Wright explained.

“Willow was always onto the next big thing, making the most of life and living it to its fullest,” he wrote.

“(He) will go down in the history books as one of Australia’s truest legends.”

Mr Wilson’s memory would live on through his friends, who missed him “more than anything”, Mr Wright said.

The touching tribute was accompanied by a video of clips from their work on National Geographic’s Outback Wrangler.

The Northern Territory’s workplace safety watchdog has launched an investigation into the deadly crash.

In the video, Mr Wilson jokes with friends and talks about the “hidden beauty” of the Northern Territory.

“I just can’t get away from the joint,” he tells the camera.

The 34-year-old is wearing an Akubra and floating in a waterfall while drinking a beer with his friends.

“I’ve had one of the best days of my entire life – the only thing that can compete is marrying my wife and having both my sons,” he says as he toasts to the camera with a XXXX Gold.

The life of Outback Wrangler Chris 'Willow' Wilson has been celebrated on social media. Picture: Instagram

A criminal investigation into the deadly chopper crash is expected to be completed within the next week.

Police are pursuing Mr Wright and two other men over their alleged conspiracy to cover up their friend’s death.

Mr Wright is also the star of Netflix show Wild Croc Territory and the owner of several tourism businesses in the Top End.