Firm’s policies, systems sought

evidence is being sought before a five-day inquest into the skydiving deaths of Kerri Pike, Peter Dawson and Toby Turner.

Counsel assisting the corner Melinda Zerner has requested a copy of Skydive Cairns’ safety management system and any policies or procedures concerning tandem and sports dives at the time of the incident.

Mr Turner had taken a sports jump from the same plane as tandem jumpers, including Ms Pike and Mr Dawson, on October 13 last year.

“The company allowed staff to undertake a sport jump at no cost if there was capacity within the plane to do so,” Ms Zerner said.

She was seeking an additional statement in relation to any recent changes to company policy prior to the deaths that allowed sports jumpers to jump for free at the same time as tandem jumpers.

“There’s been a suggestion that there was a policy change,” Ms Zerner said.

Ms Zerner also requested a copy of an internal audit done by Skydive Cairns following the incident.

Almost 20 witnesses may be called to give evidence during the inquest, which is listed for late November.

Coroner Nerida Wilson warned the trio’s family members, who were in court yesterday for a pre-inquest conference, that the proceedings would be distressing.

“We conduct these proceedings because of our communities’ respect for human life and our desire to protect the lives of others,” she said.

“It is not my role to attribute fault nor to make finding in relation to negligence or breach of duty of care.

“From the day of this accident on October 13 last year this matter was escalated to inquest status immediately.”