Information and data regarding the VH-MDX accident is incomplete and at times, convoluted. Add the significant terrain and vegetation of the Barrington Ranges and one can see why VH-MDX and it’s occupants have not been located for over thirty years.
In 2014 a new direction was initiated by us and strong progress has been made to increase the confidence of search area synthesis. A complete ‘tear down/ rebuild’ approach was initiated by Glenn Strkalj and he has pushed research deep into the roots of the accident and is uncovering many significant new findings.
Research will continue until VH-MDX is located rather than stopping at some intermediate point. Errors will be made and we will attempt to correct them. We take a flexible approach that may lead to changes in the areas of interest rather than simply defending a previously nominated area.
If solid research guides us to do so, we will go back to previously suggested areas without shame. Our aim is to release as much information as possible into the public arena rather than holding onto ‘gems’. Of course not all information is releasable and we will respect those sources of information with confidentiality.
However, even with more effective research and even the use of remote sensing, the task of locating VH-MDX is long-term. The topography of the Barrington Wilderness Area makes both foot based and remote sensing based searches challenging.
We are championing the effort to have a harmonious interest group rather than individual, factional approaches. What we offer is a central focus point for VH-MDX related activities. Additionally, a robust method of recording searched areas is required which is another of our initiatives. Solid leadership and a focused, consistent direction is required to locate VH-MDX to offer closure to families and friends and we will offer such guidance.