Tributes pour for Norman Fisher who died in the fatal East Arnhem Land helicopter crash

The cattle industry’s leaders have paid their respects to a valued businessman, farmer and pilot who was killed in a helicopter crash in East Arnhem Land.

Norman Fisher was tragically killed in a helicopter crash near the town of Ramingining in East Arnhem on Tuesday. Picture: Facebook

One of the Top End’s most influential cattlemen has been identified as the victim of a fatal helicopter crash in East Arnhem Land.

Norman Fisher was killed after his helicopter crashed near the town of Ramingining in East Arnhem.

The cattle industry is mourning the “once-in-a-lifetime operator” and one of it’s biggest businessmen in the Top End.

“He is truly irreplaceable — In terms of his role in the Fisher family and his presence across the industry, it’s impossible to measure the sense of loss that we’re all feeling this week,” NT Buffalo Industry Council president Adrian Philips said.

“Norm built an incredible legacy which we know will live on proudly, especially in his children.”

Norm Fisher on his Swim Creek Station property. Picture: Supplied

A Territorian through-and-through, Mr Fisher was born with pastoral blood in his veins.

His family own the cattle stations of Wombungi, Swim Creek and Mary River East.

The Buffalo Industry Council said Mr Fisher had built a considerable presence in the commercial crocodile farming industry, working with Traditional Owners in places like Ramingining.

Tributes from loved ones also started to flow after news of his death was reported.

“Thanks to Normy I have some of my most cherished memories,” Luke Hodge told the NT News.

“I am so grateful to have worked with, in my opinion, one of the greatest chopper pilots and bull catchers in the Top End.

“The best times of my life were spent with the Fisher family.

Norman Fisher was tragically killed in a helicopter crash near the town of Ramingining in East Arnhem on Tuesday. Picture: Facebook

“Thank you Normy – you will never know the positive change you brought to my life.

“RIP bud, a true Territory icon gone but never forgotten.”

Mr Fisher leaves behind a wife, Marnie, and children.

Norman Fisher was a well-respected member of the NT community. Picture: Facebook

“Deepest condolences to family and loved ones. There is nothing I can say to make this better or less painful, just know that my heart and thoughts are with you,” Victoria Bates wrote.

“Absolutely shattered hearing this news yesterday, condolences to the family thinking of you all — Another legend lost way to soon,” Raphael Clarke said.

“All our hearts are broken – gone way too young. You were an absolute Aussie legend, love ya,” Theresa Hokin said.

“A good man and true Territory legend gone way too soon. RIP mate, condolences to all his family and friends,” Lindsay Taylor said.

An example of the Robinson R22 Beta II helicopter the man was flying at the time of the crash.

“We’d ask that the privacy of the family is respected at this difficult time,” a statement from NT Cattlemen’s Association read.

Police were alerted to the fatal crash at 2.45pm on Tuesday.

Mr Fisher was the only occupant of the vehicle at the time of the crash.

He was declared dead at the scene once police arrived.

Superintendent Drew Slape confirmed the crash site was still part of an active crime scene.

The township of Ramingining from above. Picture: Rob Law/ Google Maps

“Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing and police are working closely with all relevant stakeholders,” he said.

Australian Transport Safety Bureau chief commissioner Angus Mitchell said a safety investigation had been launched into the crash.

Mr Mitchell said the ATSB would likely have a full report of the crash within six to eight weeks.

“The ATSB is deploying a team of transport safety investigators with experience in aircraft operations and maintenance, to begin the evidence collection phase of the investigation,” he said.

“Over coming days ATSB investigators will survey and map the accident site and collect any relevant components for further examination and analysis at the ATSB’s technical facilities tin Canberra.

“They will also obtain and review any recorded data, weather information, witness reports, and aircraft operator procedures and maintenance records.

“Should any critical safety issues be identified at any stage during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate safety action can be taken.”