Ehrich emphasized the necessity of taking proactive measures to safeguard their clients’ interests and entitlements. “We have taken the pre-emptive step to bring those applications so that we can protect our clients’ interests and all entitlements,” he stated. He further noted the critical timeline, explaining, “The three years expires in January 2026, so claims have to be commenced in court by that date.”

The tragic incident unfolded just 25 seconds after take-off when the helicopter, carrying several passengers, plummeted 40 meters and crashed onto a sandbar. Among those affected was Simon Tadros, who witnessed the horrific event from the shore. His son, Nicholas, suffered severe injuries that resulted in the amputation of his leg during his medical treatment.

The crash claimed the lives of several individuals, including the helicopter pilot, 40-year-old Ashley Jenkinson, as well as British newlyweds Ronald and Diane Hughes, aged 65 and 67, respectively. Their untimely deaths have left a lasting impact on their families and communities, as efforts continue to ensure justice and accountability for the victims.

Simon Tadros was forced to watch the disaster unfold from the shoreline and Nicholas would later have a leg amputated while being treated for his severe injuries.

Helicopter pilot Ashley Jenkinson, 40, was also killed along with British newlyweds Ronald and Diane Hughes – aged 65 and 67.

Nine passengers across both helicopters were injured.

Judge Ken Barlow today ordered the personal injury applications not proceed until a coroner has made findings into the crash.

The inquest earlier in December heard claims Jenkinson could have been affected by cocaine on the day of the crash.

There was evidence new helicopters with lower pilot visibility could have been rushed into service for the Christmas holidays, counsel assisting Ian Harvey said.

Coroner Carol Lee has adjourned the inquest to February to hear from further witnesses.

“There’s disappointment that the inquest was adjourned but there’s an understanding that it’s not an easy process,” Ehrich said.

“My clients would like (the inquest) done properly and if the parties need further time, so be it … to ensure the actual evidence comes out.”

Sea World owner Village Roadshow Theme Parks sold its joy flights operation to Sea World Helicopters Pty Ltd in 2019.

The Tadros family and several other people have in the past two weeks filed personal injury claims against Sea World Helicopters Pty Ltd in the Queensland Supreme Court.

The inquest heard Village Roadshow still had some involvement in the helicopter operation through ticket sales, audits, and staff drug and alcohol testing.

The Tadros family and the other applicants also named Gold Coast City Council, who approved the Sea World helipad, as defendants in today’s District Court applications

Jetpoint, a company that certified the helicopters as airworthy, and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority were also listed as defendants in the seven applications.