The trial of Matt Wright, a prominent figure in the Northern Territory's crocodile industry, has entered a critical phase with the defense presenting its opening arguments and key witnesses taking the stand. Wright is on trial for three counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice, allegedly related to the crash of a helicopter that occurred during a crocodile-egg collection operation. The prosecution alleges that Wright attempted to cover up details of the crash, including the amount of fuel in the helicopter's tank and the maintenance records of the aircraft. ### Defense's Opening Address Defence barrister David Edwardson KC emphasized that Wright is not on trial for breaching any aviation rules or for causing the crash itself. He urged the jury to focus solely on the evidence presented in the courtroom and not be influenced by the 'extraordinary amount of public interest' in the case. Edwardson warned that there have been 'ill-informed or scandalous opinions' expressed in various forums, including social media and commercial television, and that jurors must 'keep an open mind' and not prejudge Wright. ### The Role of the Secret Recording A significant part of the prosecution's case is based on a secret recording made between six and nine months after the crash. Edwardson argued that the recording is 'extremely poor' and that the prosecution's interpretation of the conversation is speculative. He also raised doubts about the credibility of pilot Sebastian Robinson and his family, whose testimony is central to the case. ### Witness Testimony Croc farmer Mick Burns, a key witness, took the stand and described his involvement in the crocodile industry over many years. He also recounted his response to news of the crash and his subsequent efforts to contact emergency services. Burns was emotional when describing the incident and the impact it had on him and his community. ### The Fuel Discrepancy A major point of contention is the amount of fuel in the helicopter's tank. Wright initially told police that the tank was empty, but the prosecution claims he later contradicted himself in a recorded conversation. Edwardson argued that this discrepancy is part of a broader attempt by the prosecution to suggest a cover-up, but he denied that Wright was trying to avoid scrutiny of the crashed helicopter. ### The Maintenance Records Edwardson also highlighted that Wright presented the original maintenance release (MR) form to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) investigators. He stated that this document was photographed by the investigators and also uploaded by Wright's wife to the Northern Territory Police. Edwardson emphasized that there is 'no contest' that Wright provided this information to the authorities. ### The Presumption of Innocence Throughout his opening address, Edwardson reiterated that Wright is entitled to the presumption of innocence and that the prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. He warned that the jury must not rush to judgment and must carefully consider all evidence before reaching a conclusion. ### Conclusion As the trial progresses, the focus will be on the credibility of the witnesses, the quality of the evidence, and whether the prosecution can prove that Wright attempted to pervert the course of justice. The case has drawn significant public attention, but the defense has urged the jury to remain impartial and to base their verdict solely on the evidence presented in court.