The Freycinet Action Network has launched a petition against commercial helicopter sightseeing flights, which commenced at the start of December over the national park.
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The group is calling on Tourism Minister Will Hodgman to ensure the skies above Freycinet are free from commercial helicopter rides.
They believe heli tourism will have a “huge impact” on the amenity of the park and experience of people on the ground and water.
Freycinet Action Network coordinator Sophie Underwood said she has been inundated with concerns from local business operators, residents and shack owners.
While fixed-wing aircrafts already offer tours of the area, Ms Underwood said helicopters come with a “clamour and racket matched only by jetskis” and are loathed by recreationists and tourism operators alike.
“Thirty and 55 minute helicopter flights are being offered over for example Wineglass Bay, The Hazards, Schouten Island, Cooks Beach, and Friendly Beaches, a product vastly different to the existing fixed-wing flights because of the altitude they can fly and distinctive noise,” she said.
“Until just a few weeks ago, the skies over Freycinet have been chopper-free and many are wondering just how a private company can be gifted the rights to run joy-flights and so profoundly impact the experience of others.”
Ms Underwood said the noise pollution would be heard by park users who enjoy walking, swimming, rock climbing, boating and camping in a natural setting.
The petition is at https://helitourismfreefreycinet.good.do/stopthechop/
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