Claims drones are spying on sunbakers and pestering walkers at Bondi
AUTHORITIES are struggling to regulate drones at Bondi Beach amid claims they are invading the privacy of sunbakers.
Wentworth Courier
Don't miss out on the headlines from Wentworth Courier. Followed categories will be added to My News.
AUTHORITIES are struggling to regulate drones at Bondi Beach amid claims they are invading the privacy of sunbakers.
Local photographer Jenny Evans said there were also “drone wars” between flyers wanting to get sunrise shots at the beach.
“Most people go to the point to (Ben Buckler Point) to relax and watch the sunrise,” Ms Evans said.
“It is a tranquil and beautiful place to start the day. Some mornings there can be up to three drones hovering over us.”
Ms Evans said a production crew recently asked her and her partner not to walk at their usual spot because they were filming.
“On another occasion as we were walking to the point we had a drone take off about a couple of metres away from us nearly hitting us,” she said.
“I notice the rangers are always checking up on dogs off leashes but there seems to be no policing over the sunrise drone craze which to me could be potentially more dangerous.”
Wentworth Courier has been told council rangers have also been busy dealing with complaints, mainly from women sunbaking topless, who say drone operators are spying on them.
A Waverley Council spokeswoman said it had received two complaints about drones this year.
“Council permits drone use for specific commercial filming projects,” she said.
“In regards to recreational drones, as Bondi Beach is a populous area, the use of recreational drones is closely monitored to ensure public safety.
“Council rangers can ask operators to cease flying where it is considered a risk to other members of the public.”
Drones create major security nightmare
Only the Civil Aviation Safety Authority can fine unruly drone users and they have issued only a handful in Australia this year because it is hard to prove any wrong-doing.
“We don’t have inspectors visiting locations,” said a spokesman for the aviation authority.
“We investigate on information we are given.
“If people report a possible breach of the drone rules we assess if there is evidence of a breach and if so task an investigation.”
Mayor targeted with threats, abuse over beach gym backlash
A Sydney mayor has allegedly been inundated with threats and online trolling after equipment was temporarily removed from Bondi Beach’s famous outdoor gym, with the council blaming “incorrect media reporting” for the pile-on.
Sydney Women’s Rugby: Meet 40+ stars on show in the finals
From international stars to rising young guns and those just happy to be alongside their besties, the Sydney Women’s Rugby finals has everyone covered. 40+ talents from all four divisions.