More than 300 people packed the CCSA Hall in Caloundra on Friday (Feb 7, 2014) to discuss community angst over recent helicopter training in the area.
The majority of residents who attended, namely from Bellvista Estate but included people from Pelican Waters and Golden Beach, had a grievance over the recent increase in helicopter training activity and noise. Others, however, were in support of the Caloundra Aerodrome and activity, arguing they knew they purchased near an Aerodrome.
Mr McArdle allowed many residents to stand up and have their say during the two-hour forum.
“This was a really good meeting in that it was civilised and all parties got the chance to have their say,” he said.
“From a State Government perspective I will be liaising with the National Parks Minister, Steve Dickson, to discuss the possibility of enabling alternative satellite training sites to alleviate the impact on residential communities.”
Becker Helicopters chief pilot Mike Becker was not able to attend the forum, however issued a statement outlining his support for the local community and hope for a resolution.
Cr Rick Baberowski, Cr Tim Dwyer and Sunshine Coast Airport General Manager Peter Pallot also attended and spoke at the forum.