Helium balloon releases a concern

A BUNDABERG woman is calling for a ban on mass helium balloon releases in a bid to protect the environment.

A BUNDABERG woman is calling for a ban on mass helium balloon releases in a bid to protect the environment.

Jodie Haigh said she was alarmed at the number of releases taking place in the region, especially at funerals, and pointed out the practice was banned in NSW.

“These balloons can have a huge effect on the environment when they come back down,” Ms Haigh said.

Ms Haigh said while she understood the motives behind balloon releases at funerals, there were alternatives.

“I realise it’s a symbol of souls floating up to heaven, but those balloons can be very damaging,” she said.

“It would be much more environmentally friendly to release butterflies.

“Most of these releases are at children’s funerals and most kids love animals.

“I don’t think they would be happy knowing the damage these balloons do to animals.”

Ms Haigh said balloons could travel great distances.

“They have found balloons that travelled more than 600km,” she said.

“Technically, it’s littering. The people that release these balloons would not throw rubbish on the ground so they shouldn’t be doing this.”

Wildlife carer Judy Elliott agreed that the practice posed a threat to animals.

“I am dead against it,” she said.

“It is very dangerous for animals.”

Mrs Elliott said the balloons were a threat to water creatures in particular.

“It’s mainly the ones in the water that are in danger because the balloon looks like food and animals like turtles can ingest them and die,” she said.

Sweet Moments owner Julie Bird said helium balloons were a big seller at the shop.

“People come in looking for anywhere from one to 100 balloons,” she said. “They are usually for parties but there are some for release.”

Ms Bird said people bought balloons for release about once each month.

“It is usually for funerals. I know the strings are meant to be biodegradable but I’m not sure about the balloons.”

Ms Bird said she was not sure if banning balloons was necessary.

“Where do you start and stop with these rules?” she said.

According to Bundaberg Regional Council, mass balloon releases are not illegal but must be reported to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Originally published as Helium balloon releases a concern