Northern Tablelands MP Brendan Moylan has welcomed the NSW Government’s decision to lock in the Australia-first remote drone trial in Moree for two more years.
The NSW Police Force’s POLAIR Remote Drone Program will continue to be stationed at Moree, following overwhelmingly positive community feedback and strong operational results.
The MP thanked local police, the Moree community, Moree Plains Shire Council and Minister for Police Yasmin Catley for their strong support and collaboration.
“Confirmation that the POLAIR Remote Drone Program is set to continue at Moree is great news and comes on the back of strong feedback and operational results,” Mr Moylan said.
“The drones, remotely piloted from the NSW Police Aviation Command at Bankstown, have helped drive down the rate of property offences while providing critical real time intelligence for local Police.”
Mr Moylan said the decision reflects the hard work and commitment of the entire community, as they have embraced this new and groundbreaking technology.
“The success of this drone trial belongs to Moree,” Mr Moylan said.
“Our local police have embraced this technology, our community has backed it, and Council has been a constructive partner every step of the way and the Minister has listened.
“I want to thank everyone involved for helping make this program a genuine regional success story.”
A recent survey of 516 residents showed strong support for the drones, with:
• 83% believing the drones enhance public safety
• 78% saying emergency response times have improved
• 76% reporting high trust in police use of drones
• 75% feeling safer as a result of the drone presence
Mr Moylan said the extension of the program is a major step forward for regional community safety.
“Moree has shown what’s possible when new technology is paired with strong local leadership and community support. I’m proud of what our region has achieved, and I look forward to seeing this program continue to grow.”