A low-flying drone that filmed grey nomads and other visitors at Darwin’s Mindil Beach Markets has sparked a major investigation into the use of the remotely piloted aircraft.
The crowd that had gathered on the beach to watch another spectacular Territory sunset were amazed when the drone hovered just a few metres above their heads.
Having seen the footage shot by the aircraft, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is investigating the incident and the man who uploaded the video, Darwinite Todd Sharpe, could face a heavy fine.
For recreational purposes, users cannot fly over populated areas, are allowed no closer than 30m to people, cars or buildings and can fly no higher than 400 feet. Penalties for improper use of drones range from $1000 up to $8000.
Mr Sharpe told the NT News he wasn’t aware of many of CASA’s regulations and that his drone was flown away from people and was being used privately.
“The one I’ve got is very safe,” he said.
Footage shot using cameras strapped to drones is becoming increasingly common. Other users have uploaded videos shot over suburban areas and over  backyard pool parties.
Privacy is not the only concern, however. Some argue that the objects pose a serious safety risk. In April, an athlete running in Geraldton’s Endure Batavia Triathlon was struck on the head and injured by a drone being used to film the event.
Were you at Mindil Beach Markets when the drone came? Have you ever been filmed from above? Â Comment below
I dont want these things buzzing about my head when I’m trying to have a quite relaxing time. Worse than mozzies!. They should have been only available to the police, military and security firms but I’m afraid the gennie is out of the bottle and in a few years, they will be everywhere.
I fly a drone recreationally and as a sport. I also use it to take photos and create memories of places I visit. The drone is simply a platform, not intended to intrude or spy on others. Images taken are of scenery rather than people. Are we going to ban the thousands of tourists who carry cameras?
Sorry Collo..Those groups you mention take with a grain of salt
Jim the problem was about a drone being flown over peoples heads. Poeple who use cameras dont generally fly a few meters above proples heads so I dont think your analogy makes any sense what so ever.
Taking photos with a noisy drone when people are trying to enjoy the natural environment is anti-social in the extreme. There are times and places where it may be appropriate to indulge your hobby, but care needs to be taken to not invade other peoples’ privacy or disturb the peace!
Look out if any such thing is seen over my head. Beside invading my personal space and privacy, the flying object may get in my hands and be destroyed and then taken to the police. I don’t care for what reason people think they NEED one, I DO NOT want anything of the sort anywhere near me.