Nowra helicopter poll open for Nowra helicopter pole

“After more than 20 years exposed to the elements, and a decade since its last refurbishment, the aircraft had begun to show significant deterioration,” Defence said.

“A heritage assessment by the Royal Australian Navy’s Sea Power Centre confirmed that the helicopter was no longer suitable for public display and posed potential safety risks to the community.

“Defence, in partnership with the Shoalhaven City Council, remains committed to honouring the region’s strong ties to HMAS Creswell, HMAS Albatross, the Fleet Air Arm, and the many Australian Defence Force members who have served both the nation and the local community.

“Replacing the long-standing ‘chopper on a stick’ offers the opportunity to continue recognising Nowra’s proud aviation history. The new replica will be an enduring feature of the region and a tribute to both past and present Defence personnel.”

According to Defence, the Iroquois replica would “reinstate a familiar and much-loved symbol that has been part of Nowra’s identity for more than 25 years”, while the Seahawk model would “represent the contemporary aviation capability of the Fleet Air Arm and the ongoing role [local Navy base] HMAS Albatross plays in supporting naval operations”.

In a speech to Parliament earlier this month, local MP Fiona Philips, who had campaigned for the restoration of the landmark in 2025, said residents have been “crying out for the chopper’s return”.

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“Returning a chopper to Nowra’s town entrance is so important, and I have been encouraging everyone in the Shoalhaven to have their say and, importantly, to cast their vote. I’m asking people if they will be on team Huey or team Seahawk.

“Having a chopper back on that stick represents the critical 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 defence industry.

“Since its removal, I’ve been working hard at every step of the way to ensure our prominent Navy icon returns, because that’s what our community wants and deserves. I’m absolutely delighted that everyone will get to have their say on this next chapter in Nowra’s history.”

The poll will be open to Shoalhaven residents only until 26 March.

Image credit: “Nowra. Welcome to the city. Australian Navy helicopter. Iroquois used in the Vietnam War. Also known as a Huey. First order arrived 1963.” by denisbin, CC BY-ND 2.0. Image has been cropped.