I was sitting in the garden, just one block away.

Ambulance crews arrived just as I ran up to Melville Point, camera in hand.

Surf Life Saving volunteers, still in their soccer gear from the day’s matches and wearing no shoes, were at the lookout, working tirelessly to help coordinate the early search effort.

Marine Rescue volunteers were quick in the water searching for clues. 

Police interviewed witnesses, who were clearly shaken by what they had seen.

Neighbours had gathered at the point for a look, and came and went in a steady stream throughout the day.

Then came the media – the live television crosses, press conferences, knocking on doors to find out more.

Police are yet to formally release the names of the two men in the crash as they undergo the formal identification process. However word spread quickly.

Both Ralph Buchanan and Graham White have been described as meticulous men who were passionate and experienced flyers.

They were doing what they loved.

Police expect the search could go on for many more days, even weeks. They will re-evaluate the effort at the end of each day.

Long after the search ends, the investigations conclude, and the visiting media leaves town, the community will continue to feel the impacts from this tragedy.

Moruya Aero Club member Cameron Creswell said he was still wishing it was all a bad dream, but hopes “the positive things that they have done will be remembered forever and can continue to be passed on for future generations of pilots”.

I hope so too.

Rest in Peace gentlemen.