Amateur drones spark safety warnings at Australian events and emergencies

During the Winton Camel Races, a small drone was seen tracking the camels and flying at the same altitude as spectators, leading race officials to request its landing three times over the PA system. Photographer Ann Britton, who had planned to operate her own licensed drone from a safe distance, chose to keep it grounded while searching for the unauthorized operator. Helicopter tour pilot Kate de Koning recounted a near-miss when a drone hovered a few metres above her aircraft while she was landing, describing the experience as unsettling.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority warned that recreational drone use is forbidden at events ranging from concerts to races and that only approved commercial drones may be permitted. Queensland Fire Department Acting Superintendent Cameron Herbert added that drones have been observed over emergency scenes, forcing crews to land and potentially delaying rescue efforts, and urged all amateur pilots to stay away from such incidents, especially with bushfire season approaching.