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The future of the iconic Nowra “helicopter on a stick” is secure despite the sale of the land on which it sits according to the Commanding Officer of HMAS Albatross.
Debate over the helicopter’s future was raised when a sign calling for expressions of interest for the site, which takes in the former tourist Information centre, historic Graham Lodge and of course the “helicopter on a stick” as it is commonly known, was erected.
Shoalhaven City Council rejected claims the Iroquois helicopter, which greets you as you come of the Shoalhaven River bridge travelling south, was going to be removed.
The sale of the land is part of council’s redevelopment of the riverfront site.
Captain Simon Bateman said navy had been consulted by council and the helicopter’s future had been assured.
“The helicopter on a stick as it is known or Iroquois 894 is a very famous helicopter,” Captain Bateman said.
“It has been sitting in pride of place on the southern side of the Shoalhaven River bridge since the early 2000s.
“We understand the land around the helicopter is up for sale and we [navy] have been consulted about that.”
Captain Bateman said if the new owner of the land did not want the helicopter to remain it would be relocated to another prominent site.
“We’ve got an understanding from council the helicopter will go to another point of prominence around the Nowra area if it has to be moved,” he said.
“The helicopter is on loan from the Naval Heritage Collection.
“Between navy and council we’ll have it moved. It could be the case the new owner likes it there and it may stay.”
He said it was important to recognise the local naval history and background.
“HMAS Albatross and naval aviation is part of the DNA in the Shoalhaven and council recognises that,” he said.
“The link will continue with the helicopter remaining.”