🖐 In this blog post we’ll share all known regulation around recreational and commercial drone use over the 12 Apostles in Victoria, Australia. Give a 👍 at the end of this post & feel free to share your experience or any updates you might have in the Forum. Keep in mind that the content below is updated to the best of our knowledge & does not replace official sources & your research.
The 12 Apostles are located in Victoria (VIC) which follows the common rules of the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). If you're looking for the unmanned aerial vehicle rules of Australia then click here.
As for a shortcut, no matter where in Victoria (VIC), you should fly:
at a maximum altitude of 120 m above the ground.
away from private property, vehicles in movement, people or large crowds (including over beaches, stadiums or parks) & respect individuals' privacy.
at least 5.5 km away from airports (any airport, seaplane base or area where aircraft or helicopter take off & land) & give way to all other type of aircraft.
only during permitting weather & within your sight at all times.
away from areas where its use could interfere with police or first responders.
avoiding sensitive areas including government or military facilities.
Can I fly a drone over the 12 Apostles?
The Twelve Apostles are actually a marine park park which is regulated by the Parks Victoria Services. Moreover the marine park is also famous place for a helicopter ride which makes it dangerous to operate a drone. The Twelve Apostles is surrounded by two heliports:
Port Campbell Heliport on the West Coast
Glenample Heliport on the East Coast
🚨 Recreational drone use: with this in mind, flying your unmanned aerial vehicle for recreational use over the 12 Apostles is unfortunately not allowed at this point in time.
✅ Commercial drone use: it is possible for you to fly there for commercial purposes (movie, aerial photography, etc.) but you must apply for a permit and have an Australian license to obtain it. You can apply for a permit from this link.
Watch out for sea mammals!
🐳 Marine life in Victoria is strictly looked after; you should fly no closer than 500 m from any sea mammals in Victoria (🦈 Sharks are not sea mammals btw) 🧐 Further recommendations have been given such as avoiding to approach front ways or above (including the shade of your drone) the animal(s).
How to get to the Twelve Apostles?
The 12 Apostles are located on the South Coast of Australia about 3H drive from Melbourne.
🚗 By car: this is the preferred and easiest way to get there and enjoy this beautiful site as you please. Allow 3 hours drive (one way) from Melbourne. If you are coming from Adelaide then you might want to spend a night somewhere on your way as it will take you about 8 hours to get there.
🛫 By bus: several bus tours run from Melbourne every day. You will usually get your return for a little less than $100 but be aware that you will most likely hit prime hours with little privacy and often hit the main view spots with all other tours coming in at the same time.
What to do at the 12 Apostles Marine Park?
Take a helicopter ride: "We've been there and are just like you desperate of these aerial shots to complete your album" The best way to get them is to hire a helicopter ride to bring you above this majestic site. It isn't cheap but if you hit for sunset, it should be an unforgettable memory. Here are the companies we're aware of:
Go sightseeing: If you're lucky enough to have some time to explore, head off the main track find a sweet spot from further West or East to see the 12 Apostles in their full glory from sideways. 💡 You will be even more in for a treat if you head for sunset time.
Once you got everything in order, you can start flying over the Twelve Apostles Marine Park's awesome landscapes and create videos like this one:
✅ Please leave a comment or update the Forum when you receive news and/or gain experience with your drone over the Twelve Apostles! Have fun and safe flight!
Disclaimer: Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information researched, we take no responsibility for any loss, harm or damage caused as a direct or indirect consequence of relying on this information. It is your responsibility to seek advice from qualified local & relevant authorities for needed information about local drone rules and regulations.
Other resource
Source
Comments