Aircraft with three people onboard crashes into water off Bellarine Peninsula near Point Lonsdale

The helicopter came down in shallow waters between Point Lonsdale and Ocean Grove, near Fellows Road.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is investigating the crash. The helicopter’s engine failed before the aircraft was ditched into the water, a spokesman for the agency said.

“The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve examining the recovered wreckage, interviewing witnesses and involved parties, examination of maintenance records, retrieving and reviewing recorded data, and the collection of other relevant information,” the spokesman said.

“A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.”