Proposed discrete frequency for Ballina and new frequency for Lismore, Casino and Evans Head
Feedback updated 26 May 2022
We asked
We sought feedback on a proposed frequency split to ease congestion around Ballina, Lismore, Casino and Evans Head aerodromes. The consultation survey was open for 4 weeks, from 1 November to 26 November 2021.
About this consultation
We asked two primary questions:
- Do you agree with the proposal to allocate Lismore and Casino a different CTAF to Ballina?
- Do you agree with the proposal to allocate Evans Head aerodrome the Multicom CTAF of 126.7?
Respondents were also asked for other suggestions or concerns with the airspace in the vicinity of Ballina, Lismore and Casino aerodromes.
You said
We received 4 responses to the consultation. Three responses were from organisations, with one response from an individual.
Responses validated the issues of frequency congestion and over transmission of radio calls.
Responses were supportive of the proposal to allocate Lismore and Casino aerodromes a different CTAF to Ballina.
This consultation was a follow-up to a previous survey (9 June 2021 – 11 July 2011) that received 84 submissions asking for feedback regarding frequency congestion at Ballina, Lismore and Casino aerodromes.
We did
We have listened to your feedback through this and previous industry consultations.
New radio frequencies are being introduced to ease congestion and increase safety around Ballina, Lismore, Casino and Evans Head aerodromes.
From 16 June 2022 the following Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) will apply in these vicinities:
- Ballina – 124.2 MHz (no change)
- Lismore and Casino – 132.45 MHz
- Evans Head – Multicom CTAF of 126.7 MHz
Overview
The Office of Airspace Regulation (OAR) has identified that frequency congestion around Ballina, Lismore, Casino and Evans Head aerodromes could be reduced through the allocation of a separate Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) for Lismore and Casino.
Background
Ballina aerodrome shares its radio frequency of 124.2 MHz with Lismore, Casino and Evans Head aerodromes. These aerodromes have a large mix of traffic and over the last decade have become busier. Changes have been made in the Ballina area to create a broadcast area to ensure radio calls are being made to help other flights with traffic awareness.
From 9 June 2021 to 11 July 2021, the OAR conducted a survey on frequency congestion in the vicinity of Ballina and a proposal to allocate a different CTAF for Lismore, Casino and Evans Head aerodromes.
Most respondents supported the proposal to allocate Lismore and Casino a different CTAF to Ballina and to have Evans Head CTAF changed to 126.7 - the same as Swan Bay airfield which is close by.
The OAR has visited the Ballina area on numerous occasions and conducted extensive consultation with stakeholders, which have consistently raised concerns regarding frequency congestion in the area as a result of the shared radio frequency.
Proposal
The OAR is now formally proposing to:
- allocate Lismore and Casino a different CTAF to Ballina.
- allocate Evans Head aerodrome CTAF of 126.7.
It is noted that changes may be required to the Ballina broadcast area as part of the changes to the Lismore and Casino CTAFs.
Documents for review
A copy of the consultation and AvSef paper is provided below.
If you would like to provide further feedback, please email OAR@casa.gov.au. Feedback submitted by email will be considered but cannot be published publicly.
Further information about airspace regulation is available on the CASA website.
Why your views matter
Why we are consulting
We are seeking your feedback regarding the change of frequencies at Lismore, Casino and Evans Head.
What Happens Next
Once the consultation has closed, we will register and review each submission received through the online response form. We will make all submissions publicly available on the Consultation Hub, unless you request that your submission remain confidential. We will also publish the final report on our website.
Information about how we consult and how to make a confidential submission is available on the CASA website.
To be notified of any future consultations, you can subscribe to our consultation and rulemaking mailing list.
Audiences
- Aerodrome operator
- Flight instructors and flight examiners
- Flight training operators
- Pilots
- Sport and recreation operators/clubs
- Air traffic controller(s)
- Air traffic service provider
- Part 173 of CASR Certified/Authorised Instrument Flight Procedure Designer Aerodrome
- Aerodrome owner/operators
Interests
- Airspace and infrastructure
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