Farmers and rural landowners across The Hume Police District and NSW have reported sightings of drones flying over private properties, including livestock paddocks, machinery sheds, and crop fields to police.
The Hume Police District is calling on the public’s help to report any suspicious drone activity in rural areas as the drones may pose biosecurity risks, disturb livestock, or infringe on privacy.
"This year there have been reports of suspected illegal drone activity incidents in the Hume Police District, Hunter Valley Police District, Murray River Police District, Monaro Police District, Central West Police District and other areas," police said.
"The Rural Crime Prevention Team - NSW Police Force suspects there may be more incidents and would like landholders to report them.
"Whilst not always sinister, we would like to know where and when this is occurring."
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Locals who may witness a drone are asked to record the time, location and description of the drone, take photos or videos if safe to do so, report the incident to Civil Aviation Safety Authority and NSW Police if it is suspected criminal activity or surveillance.
Police have asked locals to not attempt to damage, disable, or interfere with the drone as this is illegal and considered damaging an aircraft under federal law.
Drone Operators – Know the Rules
If you're flying a drone in NSW, you must follow CASA’s drone safety rules and only fly one drone at a time, always fly your drone in visual line-of-sight which means flying only during the day, avoid flying through cloud, fog or smoke; you can always see your drone with your own eyes, not by using goggles, binoculars, or another device; not flying behind obstacles that stop you from always seeing your drone. For example, trees, buildings, or other structures.
You must not fly your drone higher than 120m above ground level, closer than 30m to people, other than those helping to control or navigate your drone, in a way that creates a hazard to another person, property, or aircraft, near emergency operations, in prohibited or restricted airspace (use a CASA-verified drone safety app to help you)
Violations can result in fines up to $1,650 per offence, or $16,500 if prosecuted in court.
"If you’ve seen a drone flying over a rural property or have information about suspicious drone activity, please come forward," police said.
"Your report could help protect livestock, crops, and rural livelihoods."
Reports about unsafe or illegal drone activity should be directed to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). You can report these incidents using CASA's online drone complaints form. (here: https://www.casa.gov.au/.../conta.../report-unsafe-drone-use)
Additionally, anyone with information about suspected criminal activity, such as trespassing or harassment, you can report it to the NSW Police Force at your local police station, Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
