Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) can confirm that a helicopter undertaking water-bombing activities has crashed into a dam in Tarome, in the Scenic Rim area, this afternoon.

The incident occurred at a dam on a private property shortly before 3pm. It’s understood that the helicopter was undertaking water collection at the time of the crash and was hovering close to the water when it hit the surface and rolled.

The aircraft was engaged by QFES to work in support of a fire burning at Tregony, which has been burning the past several days.

The pilot, and sole occupant of the helicopter, was able to escape the wreckage and swim to shore. He is currently being assessed by paramedics. He is believed to be uninjured.

The cause of the crash is unknown at this time and QFES will assist the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) with its investigation. No further information is available at this time.