Four dead after two helicopters collide near Sea World

Queensland: Four people have reportedly died while several others sustained injuries after two helicopters collided mid-air near Sea World on the Gold Coast.  

According to Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), the incident occurred at 1:59pm. Police and witnesses said one helicopter was landing and the other was taking off when they collided. 

The tragic collision left a pilot and three passengers from one of the helicopters dead. 

The pilot of the other helicopter, who was carrying five passengers, reportedly managed to land on a sandbank in the middle of the Broadwater, preventing further casualties.  

At least three have been airlifted to hospital in critical condition, police said. 

Images show both of the helicopters involved lying on the sand, having suffered serious damage, with emergency workers swarming around them. 

All of those who died or were seriously injured were from the same helicopter, said officials.