Tributes made to father killed in air crash

A go-fund-me page has been started to support the family of Mr Swanson, who was sadly killed in the crash. Pic: GOFUNDME

By Gabriella Payne

A father and husband who was tragically killed in an aircraft crash in Kooweerup on Easter Sunday has been remembered as a “unique and kind-hearted” man by loved ones, as tributes flow online.

Charlie Swanson, a 52-year-old man from Burwood, was going for a flight in the early hours of Sunday 4 April, when his weight-shift microlight aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff at a Kooweerup Road airfield.

Mr Swanson, an experienced flyer and certified pilot, sadly died at the scene.

While police investigations are still underway, it was revealed that Mr Swanson had experienced “technical difficulties” just after takeoff and had only reached the height of surrounding trees when the accident happened.

Mr Swanson leaves behind his wife Jo and two daughters, Edie and Jemma.

A go-fund-me page has been set up by a family friend to help support Mr Swanson’s family through this difficult time and ease the financial burden on them.

“Charlie was unique and kind hearted, and made an impact on everyone that he met,” the page read.

“Any contribution will make a difference, no matter how small.”

Mr Swanson’s daughter Edie spoke to former Gazette reporter Mitch Clarke at the Herald Sun about her father’s love for flying and the “devastating” loss to her family.

“He was incredibly unique. He didn’t have a hateful bone in his body and was the most forgiving person I knew,” Ms Swanson said.

“He bent over backwards for people and I hope he’s remembered for his essence of kindness and how he’d always extend a friendly hand to anyone he met. He was just incredible.”

Contributions to help support Mr Swanson’s family can be made at https://au.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-family-of-charlie-swanson