Drone Adventures and Mishaps: From Norah Heads to Gundagai
Drone Crash and Photographic Adventures (April 2016)
In April 2016, I embarked on a photographic journey through southern Australia. Like all my trips, it started with a flurry of last-minute preparations, from fine-tuning profiles in my new print lab to delivering prints en route and finalising details for an upcoming Vietnam trip. By the time I hit the road, it was 3:00 pm—right in the middle of school traffic—but I was determined to make progress.
A Stop at Norah Heads: The Crash
After an overnight stay in Coffs Harbour, I headed south to the Central Coast, where I met up with fellow photographer and drone enthusiast, Jim Picot. We decided to fly our drones at Norah Heads, a spectacular spot featuring a historic lighthouse and rugged coastal scenery.
Launching our drones over the ocean, we captured breathtaking footage, much to the delight of onlookers watching live feeds on our devices. As we prepared to wrap up, I attempted one final manoeuvre to capture the beach from an elevated perspective.
Unfortunately, I misjudged the drone’s position, and instead of hovering safely over flat rocks, it descended toward the sea. Despite Jim’s frantic shouts to "Go up!", I couldn’t regain control in time. After a series of erratic movements, the drone plummeted 100 metres into the bushes on a cliff below.
To my relief, a local surfer offered to retrieve it, disappearing down the cliff like a seasoned adventurer. He returned with my drone in hand, but it was beyond repair—a burnt-out husk that spelled the end of my $3,000 investment.
Back in the Air with a New Drone
Determined to continue my trip, I stopped at L&P Digital Photographics, where the team miraculously sourced a brand-new DJI Phantom 4. With my new drone charged and ready, I resumed my journey, this time with a renewed appreciation for caution and preparation.
Capturing History in Gundagai
Next, I headed to Gundagai, a small town steeped in history. While many know it for the iconic “Dog on the Tucker Box” monument, I was drawn to its historic twin bridges. The decaying wooden car bridge and railway bridge spanning the Murrumbidgee River are relics of a bygone era, no longer in use but still standing as fragile reminders of the past.
Using my new drone, I captured aerial footage of the bridges from every angle—above, below, and alongside. The video showcased the bridges’ deteriorating condition, with gaping holes in the deck that could swallow a car whole. This footage is now a historic record of these structures, which may not survive much longer.
Exploring Beechworth and the High Country
After leaving Gundagai, I made my way to Beechworth, a charming historic town known for its autumnal beauty. Staying with my sister for a couple of days, I used the town as a base to explore the surrounding high country.
One highlight was the local rail trail, a scenic pathway converted from an old railway line. It was alive with vibrant autumn colours and bustling with locals and tourists enjoying the crisp country air. Early mornings were spent photographing the landscape, capturing the golden hues of the season.
Lessons from the Journey
This trip was a blend of triumphs and setbacks. From the thrill of exploring iconic landmarks to the frustration of losing a drone, it reminded me that every journey has its share of surprises. The new DJI Phantom 4 not only saved my trip but also allowed me to capture unique perspectives of the places I’ve been photographing for years.
Share Your Travel Tales
Have you had a travel mishap that turned into an unforgettable story? Connect with me on social media to share your adventures, and explore more of my journeys through photography.
