A review into noise and safety concerns around flying drones could have an effect on personal and business users in Wagga, according to an enthusiast.
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The federal Department of Infrastructure this week announced it would hold a review into "community noise impact of drone operations, the size, frequency and nature of drone operations (recreational and commercial), and existing safety regulations administered by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority".
A spokesperson for Riverina MP and senior minister overseeing the department, Michael McCormack, said the review would focus on noise complaints.
"Given the continued development and potential increased use of drones, the department will be conducting a review to determine the appropriate scope and breadth of future noise regulation," the spokesperson said.
"The review will examine state and territory regulations that commonly cover noise from equipment operating in urban environments.
"It will also look at developments overseas and industry innovation to reduce noise impacts through better drone design and operations including varying flight paths."
A major factor in the review was a trial of drone-powered deliveries in Canberra's suburbs that was met with protests by some residents
Wagga Model Aero Club president BJ Padman said commercial drones at sporting events could be one example of the technology encroaching on people in Wagga, but most recreational flying took place outside the city.
"Most people tend to fly in a location they know is safe," he said.
"Unfortunately, you do have some issues with people heading out to places like The Rock Reserve.
"You can fly out there with permission from Parks and Wildlife, but it is a nesting site for wedge-tailed eagles and other endangered birds and could cause issues.
"In the city, I can't see small recreational drones being an offence to anyone."
Recreational drones weighing more than 100 grams cannot legally be flown over most areas of Wagga due to 5.5 kilometre exclusion zones around Wagga Base Hospital, Wagga Airport and Kapooka army base.
Farmers in the Riverina have complained that their properties have come under surveillance from drones, which they suspected was linked to stock and equipment thefts.
Mr McCormack's spokesperson said those issues would not fall within the scope of the review and the department was not aware of any drone noise complaints from within the Riverina.
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