Port Stephens police and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority are warning recreational drone users to brush up on the rules of owning them following a rise in reports of drones flying too close to Newcastle Airport.
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Inspector Alan Janson said Port Stephens-Hunter police were now working with CASA and Port Stephens Council to install educational signs around Williamtown, coming as a response to the recent rise in reports of drones flying in the restricted air space.
Under CASA guidelines drones cannot be flown 120 metres above the ground or within 5.5 kilometres of a helicopter landing site or "controlled aerodrome" such as an airport.
"It's mainly on weekends that it comes to our attention," Inspector Janson said. "Sightings are starting to be reported more because drones are becoming more prevalent.
"What we're finding is that some fishermen are flying near the runway threshold area over Stockton Beach. We've identified areas around Lavis Lane and the beach access areas in Williamtown to be problem spots. We're starting an education campaign focused on these area."
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CASA spokesperson Peter Gibson said there was a risk of a drone colliding with an aircraft if flown within the 5.5km radius of a runway or helipad.
"It's very important that drone flyers stay at least 5.5km from airports at all times to avoid the risk of a mid-air collision with an aircraft," he said.
"People must not fly a drone where aircraft are operating and that includes places where helicopters take off and land."
Police have referred a number of sightings of drones in the Williamtown airspace to CASA but no fines have been laid, Inspector Janson said. CASA has the authority to fine drone users found to breach the rules of recreational flying. Fines range from $1000 to $10,000.
Educational signage is expected to go up around Williamtown within the next eight weeks.
Inspector Janson said police and the council would also speak with tourism operators about visitors using drones in Williamtown.
"Drones are becoming more and more popular but there is a lot of responsibility that comes with owning them," he said. "We just want people to be aware of the risks and what you can and can't do."
CASA is planning to introduce a drone registration and accreditation scheme in the second half of 2019. Part of the scheme is accreditation that will require people to do a short online education course.
The rules of flying drones can be found at casa.gov.au or droneflyer.com.au.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
