Hey everyone, I’m a first-time DJI owner.
Just wondering if anyone from the Gold Coast/Surfers Paradise area has flown their drone along the beach or in the park? The CASA approved apps show no restrictions in some spots, but a security guard told me flying a camera drone is not allowed at Broadwater Parklands, even though the app says it’s fine.
Just want to double-check so I don’t end up only flying indoors. Thanks!
Hey mate, I fly my drone around GC a lot. The security guard is right; Broadwater Parklands is near where helicopters take off, so it’s a restricted area (plus, you don’t want to fly there after what happened with the chopper crash).
There’s also a restricted zone near OOL airport and probably Southport airfield too. But lots of us fly along the beach from Surfers to Currumbin without issues. Check the DJI Fly app, it shows flight paths clearly.
@Callen Yeah, that chopper crash was awful. Thanks so much for the advice! I’ll check the DJI Fly app again and give it a try soon.
The apps just show restricted airspace. There are also land restrictions that councils and others enforce. You’ll notice all national parks show as okay in the apps, but drones are still restricted there.
@Liam Yeah, it gets confusing. Definitely important to double-check everything.
Another option is to check the DJI Flysafe website. It’s updated pretty often.
@MasonDroneWhisper I’ll look into that, thanks!
I’ve flown my Mavic Pro around those areas a few times. It’s still a good drone, but the newer ones are definitely better in terms of features and performance.
@Brooke Bro, DJI Mavic Pro is outdated, not as good as the DJI Neo.
@Callen I’ve flown in a lot of council parks too. Pizzey Park is great for practice since it has lots of open fields and water spots to try different shots. Just stay under 120m and keep 30m away from people. Super easy.
Here’s a video I shot at Nobbys Beach: https://youtu.be/6F9N-XmGsr4?si=NfjlocZ1yODZWQh2
You can also join the Brisbane and GC drone groups. Lots of good info there. Brisbane Drone Flyers No Sheriffs and Gold Coast Drone Flyers are both good. DJI Owners Australia No Sheriffs is helpful too. Send it! 
