SHIRE COUNCIL BANS UNDER-WING AIRCRAFT CAMPING AT BIRDSVILLE RACES
"I am urging the Diamantina Shire Council to immediately withdraw the under-wing camping ban. ",
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Australia
DIAMANTINA SHIRE COUNCIL BANS UNDER-WING AIRCRAFT CAMPING AT BIRDSVILLE RACES
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Australia has today confirmed the Diamantina Shire Council has banned under-wing aircraft camping at the Birdsville Races, ending what had become an iconic pilgrimage for thousands of aircraft owners and pilots.
A council representative, Mr Trevor Stuart, today confirmed the ban, stating it had been taken as a result of significant concerns for safety and the escalating costs of providing security for the aircraft camping site.
"AOPA Australia is deeply concerned with the ban. Under-wing aircraft camping is not an unusual or unsafe activity, and is enjoyed nationwide at a wide range of airports and events. To our knowledge, there has never been a single accident or safety concern involving under-wing camping in our nation."
"The council ban on under-wing camping can only serve to damage the success of the Birdsville races, by sending a clear and loud message that aviators are unwelcome and should stay away."
"This short-sighted council ban, risks damaging many years of goodwill built between the aviation community and the Birdsville races. Should it remain in place, local businesses will without question suffer with pilots nationwide electing to travel and invest elsewhere."
"I am urging the Diamantina Shire Council to immediately withdraw the under-wing camping ban. ", Benjamin Morgan, CEO AOPA Australia.
AOPA Australia has written to the Diamantina Shire Council CEO, Mr Leon Love, seeking an urgent meeting to discuss the situation.
Minutes from the December 2020 Council Meeting: https://www.diamantina.qld.gov.au/.../ordinary-council...
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