Three people rushed to hospital after helicopter crashes into the ocean near Point Lonsdale off Victoria coast

Three people have been rushed to hospital after a helicopter has crashed into the ocean off the coast of .

The horror crash happened just after 10am local time on Friday May 2 at Point Lonsdale, near Geelong on the tip of the Bellarine Peninsula. Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria were both made aware of the incident.

Paramedics and officers are on the scene working alongside emergency service colleagues. Footage provided to news channels appears to show the aircraft in water just off the coast.

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Police confirmed three people were in the helicopter and that all three passengers made it to shore before a passersby contacted emergency services.

Victoria Police said a man and woman, who are yet to be identified, have been airlifted to hospital with serious injuries. The third passenger, an unidentified man, has been taken by road to hospital with serious injuries.

A statement on the reads: "Emergency services have responded to a helicopter crash at Point Lonsdale this morning. It’s believed the chopper was seen crashing into water off Fellows Road just after 10am.

"There were three people onboard the aircraft. All three people managed to make it to shore and were located by passersby who contacted emergency services. A yet to be formally identified male and female have been airlifted to hospital with serious injuries.

"A yet to be formally identified male has been taken by road to hospital with serious injuries. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined at this stage.

"The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) will investigate the crash with assistance from police. Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV/dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or ."

The ATSB improves safety and public confidence in aviation, marine and rail transport through independent ‘no blame’ investigation of transport accidents and safety occurrences; safety data recording, analysis and research; and influencing safety action through fostering safety awareness.

Fire Rescue Victoria said in a statement: "Firefighters arrived on scene in two minutes to find a light aircraft impacted in water 30-50metres from the shoreline. Crews worked in collaboration with Surf Life Saving and Ambulance Victoria to extricate three people from the water and bring them to safety to receive treatment."

The Bellarine Peninsula is a popular spot for tourists wanting to enjoy the beautiful coastline, beaches, wineries, and historic towns. It is located in Victoria, Australia, extending into Port Phillip Bay. The peninsula is a mixture of serene bayside beaches and rugged ocean shores. It's a popular spot for both recreation and tourism, with activities like swimming, surfing, and walking trails.

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