Will the iconic ‘Huey’ chopper be toppled from pole position in Nowra? Photo: Minister for Defence.
Love it or loathe it, Nowra’s iconic ‘chopper on a stick’ is coming back.
You might not get a say in that, but you can help choose which helicopter will take pride of place at the town’s gateway.
After more than 25 years sitting proudly at the northern gateway to Nowra, the Iroquois 894 chopper, aka ‘Huey’, was removed due to serious safety concerns.
Soon it will be replaced with a new, life-sized replica. Options include the return of Huey or an MH-60R Seahawk (Romeo) helicopter, which represents the Royal Australian Navy’s current chopper fleet based at HMAS Albatross.
Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said it was a tough call to make, so it was opened up to a public vote.
“I’ve spoken to a lot of former and serving Defence personnel and believe me, everyone has a very strong opinion about which chopper should return to the stick,” she said.
“Obviously there’s the history of the Iroquois Huey which was an iconic symbol of our town for 25 years and recognises the significant role the chopper played in the Vietnam War.
“Then you have the Seahawk Romeo which represents HMAS Albatross here at Nowra, the Navy’s largest operational establishment and home of the Fleet Air Arm.
“I am absolutely delighted that everyone will get a say on this next chapter in Nowra’s history.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles said this was more than just replacing a landmark.
He said it was about honouring the region’s deep ties to the Royal Australian Navy and its proud aviation heritage.
“We made a commitment that the chopper would return,” he said.
“The replacement, to be chosen by the local community, will continue to reflect the strong connection between Defence and the Shoalhaven region.
“Voting is now open, and I encourage everyone in Shoalhaven to have their say.
“Whether it’s the Iroquois or the Seahawk, this decision belongs to the community. Help us shape this important symbol of our shared heritage.”
Mrs Phillips said whichever replica chopper was chosen would be an enduring feature in Nowra for decades to come.
“We are a defence town, with a strong history and a very bright future,” she said.
“Having a chopper back on that stick represents the important role our former and current serving Defence personnel have played and will continue to play in defending our nation.
“I hope it will also encourage local young people to consider a career in Defence or the defence industry.
“Since its removal, I’ve been working hard every step of the way to ensure our prominent Navy icon returns, because that’s what our community wants and deserves.
Defence organisations, community groups and individuals have until 26 March to cast their vote here.
Original Article published by Zoe Cartwright on Region Illawarra.
