Emirates One&Only MOD 4 - Temporary Changes to Helicopter Transport

I am a Blue Mountains resident and a keen bushwalker. I strongly object to the proposed increase in helicopter flight frequency over the Lower Blue Mountains and the Gardens of Stone Conservation Area on the following grounds:
1. The proposal is unnecessary. The applicant claims that the project is required due to the closure of Wolgan Gap Road, but Wolgan Gap Road is to re-open by August 2026. Clearly, the intention is to permanently increase the number of flights despite only a temporary road closure.
2. The exponential increase in the number of proposed flights (from four to 210 per week), with all the associated safety risks, including an increased risk of accidents over residential and protected wilderness areas. The proposal lacks a rigorous risk assessment concerning potential mid-air collisions, particularly given the high elevation of the Newnes Plateau, the frequency of the proposed flights, and use of one flight approach path in and out of the resort.
3. The privatisation of air space over the lower Blue Mountains and the Gardens of Stone Conservation Area by a foreign company seeking to make profit from an Australian natural resource.
4. Environmental concerns associated with increased noise pollution affecting residents and visitors to the area. Since the proposed helicopter flights would have to take place within a narrow vertical corridor beneath commercial aircraft flight paths, the proximity to residents' properties is likely to degrade the quality of their lives and their peaceful enjoyment of their properties to which they are entitled by law.
5. World Heritage Area impact is understated by omitting the Gardens of Stone National Park from the report assessment. The proposal does not consider the adverse impacts of the helicopter flights above Newnes Plateau passing directly over the Pagoda Walk, a public camping ground on the walk, Birds Rock Lookout, and Forest Camp, the acoustic amenity of which would be highly impacted.
6. Impact on economic benefits of the Gardens of Stone Conservation Area, including local tourism. The State Govenrment has been investing heavily in the local infrastructure, in order to make it more inviting and appropriate for bushwalkers and visitors. Constant helicopter noise and visual intrusion would significantly interfere with visitors' ability to enjoy the peace and quiet and breath-taking views of the area, resulting in a tarnished reputation of the same, and a consequential economic loss to the region.
I urge the Department to reject this proposal, since it does not have any potential benefits for either local or state interests, but only for a private foreign investor intent on making profit from Australian natural wonders, while irreversibly destroying the best features and amenities of the region.

J Bara 

Wolgan Valley Rd 

Wolgan Valley  

I am writing to object to Modification 4 of MP06_0310 Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort (Mod 4). 

I object on the following grounds: 

1. The helicopter operation plan is invalid as it has not been updated since 2020 and this is now 2026 so is therefore not relevant. The emirates Wolgan Valley Resort was originally approved on the premise that access to and from the resort was primarily by road with helicopter transfers of guests as a supplementary mode of access, not MAIN access! 

2. The local community has not been consulted on this application and it has been non-existent, therefore considering this is who it actually impacts means I heavily object. 

3. The noise impact assessment is invalid as it does not identify any new noise receptors as a result 

of this proposed new flight path. There has been no actual noise measurements have been presented from test flights from the proposed new flight route. This is unacceptable to all the residents in the valley. 

4. No assessment of safety risks for users of the Gardens of Stone State Conservation  Area (SCA) has been completed. 

5. Mod 2 relocated the helipad to a location on and introduced a new flight path on Carne Creek that reduced noise significantly for many of the noise receptors and Mod 2 did not change the fundamental mode of operation at the resort as primary access remained by road. Mod 3 (2023) sought a major increase in helicopter movements and included the use of helicopters for guests, staff and cargo transport. Mod 3 represented a total change in operations for the resort similar to Mod 4 discussed here and Mod 3 was widely criticised by both community and Government agencies as being inadequate in addressing noise, safety and environmental aspects. It was subsequently withdrawn by the applicant. This new Mod 4 contains similar large increases in helicopter movements but now includes a change in flight path at the request of the National Parks and Wildlife Service to avoid impacts to their proposed bush Camps in the SCA.  Mod 4 completely changes the access modality of the resort and thus requires the complete review of the entire Environmental Impact Statement. Treating Mod 4 as a minor change by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) is incorrect and therefore this modification must be rejected.   

6. The noise impact assessment is invalid . The noise impact assessment conducted by RWDI Australia (RWDI 2023)to the application is invalid for several reasons. The noise impact assessment was conducted in 2023 for the (now withdrawn) Mod 3 proposal and as Mod 4 completely alters the flight path to another part of the Wolgan Valley and thus any noise modelling done for Mod 3 is invalid for Mod 4. 

7. RWDI 2023 fails to identify new noise receptors that are impacted as a result of the new flight path and there are at least 3 more dwellings to the immediate west of the flight path that are not visible on the lands shown in figure 5.  

8. Emirates has NOT made any test flights with actual noise monitoring using the proposed flight path. This could have been arranged by Emirates while the resort has been on care and maintenance. The noise assessment for Mod 4 must be rejected as inadequate. Emirates must be required to actually complete the actual noise receptors affected by this new proposal, conduct test flights on the new flight path, plu7s measure actual noise levels at these new receptors and base the noise impact assessment on that data. 

9. The helicopter operations plan is invalid. As it was produced in 2020 and refers to flight numbers and flight paths as approved in Mod 2. The Plan needs to be updated for the current proposal. 

Conclusion 

The closure of the Wolgan Gap of Wolgan Road has caused a serious impediment to the 

ability of Emirates to operate the Wolgan Valley Resort. Despite years of lobbying by Emirates plus many offers of funding to assist in repairing the road, there remains a road access issue.  It has been nearly four years since the road was closed and there is still no direction or plan to commence works to provide two-wheel drive access to the Wolgan Valley. 

I reject and object to this MOD4 as there are many issues for this project EIS, noise impacts, lack of community consultation, lack of safety risk assessments. So this MOD4  does not comply with the NSW Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines and must be rejected.

AS a local resident, I object to Modification 4 of MP06_0310. I ask the Department to refuse the modification because the Wolgan Road is re-opening in August 2026 and an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) has not been conducted for high numbers of helicopter flights impacting on sensitive park areas. The road is scheduled to reopen to 2WD traffic by August 2026 (Lithgow Mercury, 7 May 2026.
The original approval allowed only 4 flights per week. This proposal seeks 210 flights per week (30 per day).
This effectively transforms a private resort helipad into a busy commercial heliport, which was never the intent of the original development.
This increase will negatively impact the Wolgan Valley and nearby areas. It will decimate the peace and quiet of the valley for us residents, many of us have been here long before Emirates and chose the valley. This is our home that we chose because of the peace and tranquillity. If we wanted to hear excessive helicopter noise we would live near an airport.
I reiterate the road is due to be reopened in a matter of months making this request absurd. Us residents are individuals, and small businesses that have had to deal with the impacts of the road closure, so can a conglomerate such as the Emirates.
There are so many negative impacts of this submission not just for residents but environmental, noise degradation, and tourism that will unfavourably impact the greater region.
I ask that you look into some of these issues before making your decision, diligently and without bias.
There are also safety concerns with the proposal as it lacks a rigorous risk assessment regarding potential mid-air collisions, particularly given the high elevation of the Newnes Plateau, the frequency of the proposed flights and use of one flight approach path in and out of the resort.
I dont know about you but the thought of a mid air collision landing on top of us is unthinkable and not something I wish to add to my stress levels.
Even if the flight numbers were "temporary" I dont trust that the numbers will reduce once the road is reopened. There have been too many times we have been burnt by trusting Emirates and even council's "words/promises eg: the resort has a history of unfulfilled obligations, specifically regarding land exchanges with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) that have been outstanding since 2007.

Just to be clear, I object to the - Modification 4 of MP06_0310.

Kind Regards
Trevor Mansfield

Dear Mr Jeffrey Peng,
NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure,

I object to Modification 4 of MP06_0310 for the Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort.

I am iat an age when I regularly enjoy hiking, camping and spending time in natural areas. The Gardens of Stone region is important to me because of its striking natural beauty, its well-preserved landscapes, and the opportunity it provides to experience peace, silence and solitude in nature.

For me, the value of places like Gardens of Stone is not only visual. It is also acoustic. The quietness of the landscape is a major part of the experience. When I go hiking or camping, I am seeking refuge from urban noise and everyday disturbance. The sound of frequent helicopter movements would significantly reduce the quality of that experience.

I am particularly concerned that this proposal would allow up to 210 helicopter movements per week, or around 30 per day, associated with a private resort. That level of helicopter activity is not a minor change. It would fundamentally alter the character of the area and risk turning a quiet natural landscape into one affected by regular mechanical noise.

The proposal appears unnecessary given that Wolgan Road is expected to reopen, and it is not appropriate for a temporary access issue to justify what may become a long-term or permanent increase in helicopter use. The original approval reportedly allowed only 4 flights per week, whereas this modification seeks a very large increase to 210 movements per week.

I am also concerned that the proposal does not properly account for hikers, campers and other park visitors as sensitive receivers. People camping or walking in the Gardens of Stone region cannot close windows, retreat indoors or install noise insulation. They are directly exposed to aircraft noise, and many are visiting precisely because they value natural quiet.

The Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area and surrounding World Heritage landscape should be protected for public enjoyment, nature-based recreation and future generations. Frequent helicopter overflights would undermine the peaceful character of the area and diminish the very qualities that make it special.

I request that the Department refuse Modification 4. At minimum, this proposal should not proceed without a full Environmental Impact Statement that properly assesses impacts on park users, acoustic amenity, conservation values, public recreation, tourism and the broader Blue Mountains community.

Yours sincerely,

To Whom It May Concern,
I am a Blue Mountains resident, and outdoor recreation enthusiast. I frequent the Wolgan valley and Gardens of Stone for rock climbing and bush walking. I am also an acoustics engineer, with experience in noise modelling. I am writing to object to this proposal on the grounds that helicopter flights will have significant noise impacts on this wilderness area, with negative outcomes for residents and recreational user groups. Please find my full submission with independent noise modelling attached.

Best regards,
Ben Jancovich

Objection to the proposal and request that it be refused
I strongly object to the proposal by Emirates Hotels (Australia) Pty Ltd to increase helicopter flights into the Wolgan Valley Resort from 14 flights per week to 105 flights per week (or a maximum of 15 trips per day), reducing to 50 trips per week (or a maximum of 10 trips per day) once 2WD access is restored to the Valley, as well as to the proposed change to the flight path.
I request that this proposal be refused in its entirety.
________________________________________
Deficiencies in process, consultation and transparency
This represents a substantial modification to an approved State Significant Development (SSD). It is concerning that the proposal has progressed to public exhibition without adequate supporting information, consultation or transparency. In particular:
• There is no updated Environmental Impact Statement supported by independent expert analysis.
• There has been no engagement with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
• There has been no broad or meaningful community consultation, including with:
o impacted residents and landholders; and
o current and potential users of Wollemi National Park and the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area.
• Insufficient time has been provided to properly review and assess the claims made in the Modification Report for accuracy and reliability.
These deficiencies are inconsistent with the level of scrutiny and transparency expected for modifications to SSD approvals, particularly where impacts on the environment and local communities are significant.
________________________________________
Reliance on approved conditions and expectations
I have been a landowner in Wolgan Valley since 2016 and a resident since 2019. My property comprises 48 hectares, with more than 95% native bushland.
The primary reason for purchasing this property was the Valley’s peaceful natural environment, its wilderness character, and its location surrounded by National Parks and State Forests, enabling a direct and ongoing connection with nature.
In making this decision, I relied on the strict conditions attached to the original approval of the Emirates Resort, which were intended to protect these characteristics.
The proposed changes to helicopter operations extend well beyond the scope and intent of that approval and would materially alter the character of the Valley.
________________________________________
Acoustic and topographical impacts
The acoustic assessment in the Modification Report does not adequately consider the unique topography of the Wolgan Valley.
My property is located at a narrow section of the Valley, with cliff escarpments several hundred metres high across a valley span of around 1km. This geography significantly amplifies and transmits sound and vibration compared to more open areas.
For example:
• Campgrounds located at the top of the escarpments to both the east and west generate audible noise at my property, including normal camping activities.
• Noise from properties several kilometres to the north is also clearly audible due to echoing effects.
Helicopter movements over my property already generate significant noise and vibration. These impacts would be substantially increased under the proposed flight volumes and altered flight path.
The existing acoustic assessment does not adequately account for these amplification effects and therefore underestimates the true impact.
________________________________________
Impact on wildlife and ecological values
The same acoustic and disturbance impacts would apply, and likely be magnified, for native wildlife.
The Valley and surrounding escarpments support:
• wedge-tailed eagles regularly circling from the escarpment into the Valley;
• black cockatoos moving between escarpments and through the Valley (including to and from the Capertee Valley) on an almost daily basis;
• peregrine falcons traversing from escarpment to Valley floor;
• multiple frog species (with narrow breeding call windows);
• reptiles, including at least two snake species;
• numerous insect and spider species;
• native mammals including macropods and wombats.
The proposed flight path would directly intersect with these established flight corridors and habitats.
Given that a new flight path is proposed, it is unacceptable that no comprehensive assessment of ecological impacts has been undertaken.
________________________________________
Lack of demonstrated need
The Modification Report does not adequately substantiate the need for the proposed increase in helicopter movements, either on a temporary or permanent basis.
Historically:
• The resort has successfully transported guests via specialised 4WD vehicles from Wallerawang.
• These arrangements have proven effective, and no evidence has been provided to explain why they are no longer viable.
Further:
• The Report relies on outdated assumptions regarding the timeframe for restoration of 2WD access.
• The previously cited 7–10 year timeframe has since been revised to a significantly shorter period.
• Recent communication from resort management indicates that reopening timelines remain uncertain, with August described as highly ambitious and late-year reopening more likely.
This is consistent with the fact that bookings are not currently available.
Accordingly, the scale of the proposed increase in helicopter use is not justified by current circumstances.
________________________________________
Inaccurate representation of community consultation
The Modification Report states:
“Consultation with the community and with Lithgow City Council and relevant NSW government agencies by the applicant recognises the need for the resort to reopen and generally understands that temporarily increasing approved helicopter trips … is necessary”.
This statement is factually incorrect.
There has been no consultation with the community regarding the current helicopter proposal.
The consultation letter included within the application relates to a different proposal (now withdrawn) which involved a materially different flight path.
________________________________________
Conclusion
The proposal represents a significant and unjustified departure from the conditions of the approved SSD, with substantial and inadequately assessed impacts on residents, the natural environment and wildlife.
The application is characterised by:
• insufficient supporting evidence
• inadequate environmental and acoustic assessment
• absence of meaningful community consultation
• lack of demonstrated need
Accordingly, the proposal should be refused in its entirety.

Re: Submission on: Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort - Modification 4
Project Number: MP06_0310, Mod 4

My family and I swapped the noise, traffic and poor air quality of Sydney for the peace, quiet and clean air of Blue Mountains. The Blue Mountains are part of a World Heritage Area (BMWHA). Nevertheless, development proposals continue to threaten this area, its natural beauty, natural habitats and residents. The latest being the Emirate helicopter development.
My family and I object to Modification 4 of MP06_0310, of Emirates proposal for 210 helicopter movements/week (105 in and 105 out) or 30/day to its Wolgan Valley resort. If approved, helicopter noise will spoil the Gardens of Stone region and further degrade the amenity of the area.
We object for the following reasons:
1.The Proposal is Unnecessary as the Wolgan Gap Road is re-opening very soon, therefore there is no justification for the 210 helicopter flights per week on the basis that the road is closed.
2. Excessive Flight Volume - If the road is safe for heavy vehicles, then it is safe for guests in 2WD vehicles. Once the proposed volume of helicopter flights is approved, there is no guarantee of winding those 210 per week flights back. This flight volume transforms a private resort helipad into a busy commercial heliport, which was never the intent of the original development.
3. Flawed Noise Assessments
Noise reports provided by the resort use obsolete data that predates the creation of the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area (SCA).
The assessment ignores "sensitive receivers" like hikers and campers. Unlike residents, visitors to the Gardens of Stone do not have walls and cannot install double-glazing to block out helicopter noise.
Studies (eg. from US Forest Service) show that park users are 10dB(A) less tolerant of aircraft noise than people in residential areas. You visit parks for peace and quiet, not the disturbing noise of helicopters.
4. Impact on Public Investment and Tourism
The NSW Government is investing $50 million into the Gardens of Stone SCA for walking tracks, lookouts and campgrounds, as well as the inappropriate glamping resorts proposed in pagoda landscapes.
Constant helicopter noise will degrade these public assets, ruin the "peace and quiet" visitors expect, and could lead to a net economic loss for the region’s tourism industry, as the majority of park visitors won’t come to the Gardens of Stone once it has a reputation for constant helicopter noise.
5. Environmental impacts disregarded
The modification does not consider the adverse impacts of the proposed helicopter overflights above Newnes Plateau passing directly over the Pagoda Walk, a public camping ground on the walk, Birds Rock Lookout and Forest Camp ruining the acoustic amenity of these high use visitor areas.
The proponent’s report understates the impacted World Heritage Area by nearly half (by omitting the Gardens of Stone National Park from the property).
6. Lack of Trust and Accountability
The resort has a history of unfulfilled obligations, specifically regarding land exchanges with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) that have been outstanding since 2007.
There is no guarantee that this "temporary" increase in flights will not become a permanent fixture. In fact, it is highly likely that transport to the resort by helicopter will be permanent, once established.
7. Safety Concerns
The proposal lacks a rigorous risk assessment regarding potential mid-air collisions, particularly given the high elevation of the Newnes Plateau, the frequency of the proposed flights and use of one flight approach path in and out of the resort.
8. Helicopter noise concentration in the lower Blue Mountains
We also object to the intensified noise footprint caused by the ‘vertical sandwich’ of the June 2026 WSI airspace design. The rising terrain between Glenbrook and Springwood will force helicopters to fly at or near legal minimum altitudes to avoid commercial flight paths. This will concentrate the noise of 30 daily Emirates helicopter movements directly over lower Blue Mountains townships and the World Heritage National Park, significantly degrading the acoustic amenity of the region.

The vertical sandwich: From 2026, the Western Sydney Airport airspace will force helicopters to fly near minimum altitudes to avoid the commercial airspace ceiling. This will concentrate the noise from 30 daily helicopter movements to and from the Emirates Resort when flying over lower Blue Mountains townships and the World Heritage Area, degrading acoustic amenity.
For all the above reasons, we ask that the DBHI refuse Project Number: MP06_0310, Mod 4, and because the Wolgan Road is re-opening in August 2026 and an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of lower Blue Mountains in addition to the Western Sydney Airport 24/7 flight noise has not been conducted for high numbers of proposed helicopter flights impacting on sensitive park areas. PLEASE SEE ATTACHMENT
My family, friends and I bush-walk, and live and work in BMWHA. We care deeply about this area and do not wish to see it spoiled by such potentially damaging developments. Therefore, we ask that this development project be refused by your DPHI.

RE: Modification Application MP06_0310-Mod-4 – Emirates One and Only Wolgan Valley Resort

Dear Sir/ Madam,

I am writing in objection to the above Modification Application for the following reasons:-

1. Improper Bundling of Commercial and Scenic Flights with required guest Access:
The proposal to increase scenic flights is entirely unjustified and distinct from the issue of emergency transport access. Bundling discretionary commercial tourism activities under the umbrella of a critical transport access modification is an inappropriate use of the planning process. Commercial scenic flights do not serve an emergency function and should be stripped from this proposal entirely. They must be assessed independently under a separate, standalone Modification Application. I require extra time to properly isolate and dissect these conflicting elements of the application.

2. Disproportionate Scaling Under Guise of guest transport due to Road Closures:
The proposal seeks a massive 700% at 50% operational capacity long-term aviation increase with no sunset clause. When operating at 100% no doubt they will want to increase to 440 movements per week, there should be a sunset clause. While the landslide on Wolgan Road caused legitimate operational disruption, leveraging a localized transport disruption to lock in a probably permanent, high-volume commercial scenic/joy flight regime is an exploitation of the planning process. I dearly require extra time to analyze the long-term strategic impacts of this structural shift, which will outlast any road stabilization/relocation works.

3. Absence of Acoustic Data inside Subterranean Microbat Roosts:
The escarpments of the Wolgan Valley, Carne Creek, and the surrounding Wollemi National Park support critical, vulnerable microbat populations that rely on cliff crevices and deep cave systems for day roosting and maternity colonies. The proponent's acoustic data entirely fails to account for low-frequency sound reverberation inside these roosting caves. Helicopter rotor wash and engine resonance echo heavily within confined valley topography, threatening to cause acoustic trauma, roost desertion, and colony collapse. I require an extension to assess this specific biological threat and consult with friends who are qualified to advise me on such matters.
4. Inadequate Community Consultation:
The proposed volume of aviation traffic represents a major operational shift. I live in the surrounding regional community and as a permanent local resident have not been given a transparent or fair opportunity to comprehend the acoustic impacts of these flights which will adversely impact the present tranquility of my local ambient background noise. 5. Absence of Scenic Flight Path Mapping: The exhibited documents fail to provide explicit geographic maps detailing the flight paths, altitudes, and routing for the proposed scenic flights. Without these visual maps, it is impossible for me to gauge the direct visual and auditory privacy impacts on my daily life. 6. Omission of Fly Neighbour Agreements: The application fails to account for all existing operational frameworks that protect my local airspace which extends forever upwards by the way. I do recall in one of the acoustic reports reading mention of movements around 10pm, and also movements over declared wilderness areas. A thorough submission requires a comprehensive review of any current Fly Neighbourly Agreements covering the Capertee Valley and the surrounding World Heritage-listed national parks and declared wilderness zones, specifically Wollemi National Park, the Wollemi Wilderness, and the Gardens of Stone National Park.

Given that this proposal is also to enable the Emirates’ Wolgan Valley Marriott Hilton Lodge to have the drawcard of Helicopter Scenic/Joy Flights as a means of transport for their guests,

I find that I am unable to accept this Mod-4 as a legitimate request for a temporary modification to the number of helicopter flights as common sense prevails.

I look forward to a response to my very pressing concerns as soon as possible.

Yours sincerely,
Veronica Nolan
28 Coorain Street
Glen Davis NSW 2846
Telephone: 0423506210
Email: [email protected]

RE: Modification Application MP06_0310-Mod-4 – Emirates One and Only Wolgan Valley Resort

Dear Sir/ Madam,

I am writing in objection to the above Modification Application for the following reasons:-

1. Improper Bundling of Commercial and Scenic Flights with required guest Access:
The proposal to increase scenic flights is entirely unjustified and distinct from the issue of emergency transport access. Bundling discretionary commercial tourism activities under the umbrella of a critical transport access modification is an inappropriate use of the planning process. Commercial scenic flights do not serve an emergency function and should be stripped from this proposal entirely. They must be assessed independently under a separate, standalone Modification Application. I require extra time to properly isolate and dissect these conflicting elements of the application.

2. Disproportionate Scaling Under Guise of guest transport due to Road Closures:
The proposal seeks a massive 700% at 50% operational capacity long-term aviation increase with no sunset clause. When operating at 100% no doubt they will want to increase to 440 movements per week, there should be a sunset clause. While the landslide on Wolgan Road caused legitimate operational disruption, leveraging a localized transport disruption to lock in a probably permanent, high-volume commercial scenic/joy flight regime is an exploitation of the planning process. I dearly require extra time to analyze the long-term strategic impacts of this structural shift, which will outlast any road stabilization/relocation works.

3. Absence of Acoustic Data inside Subterranean Microbat Roosts:
The escarpments of the Wolgan Valley, Carne Creek, and the surrounding Wollemi National Park support critical, vulnerable microbat populations that rely on cliff crevices and deep cave systems for day roosting and maternity colonies. The proponent's acoustic data entirely fails to account for low-frequency sound reverberation inside these roosting caves. Helicopter rotor wash and engine resonance echo heavily within confined valley topography, threatening to cause acoustic trauma, roost desertion, and colony collapse. I require an extension to assess this specific biological threat and consult with friends who are qualified to advise me on such matters.
4. Inadequate Community Consultation:
The proposed volume of aviation traffic represents a major operational shift. I live in the surrounding regional community and as a permanent local resident have not been given a transparent or fair opportunity to comprehend the acoustic impacts of these flights which will adversely impact the present tranquility of my local ambient background noise. 5. Absence of Scenic Flight Path Mapping: The exhibited documents fail to provide explicit geographic maps detailing the flight paths, altitudes, and routing for the proposed scenic flights. Without these visual maps, it is impossible for me to gauge the direct visual and auditory privacy impacts on my daily life. 6. Omission of Fly Neighbour Agreements: The application fails to account for all existing operational frameworks that protect my local airspace which extends forever upwards by the way. I do recall in one of the acoustic reports reading mention of movements around 10pm, and also movements over declared wilderness areas. A thorough submission requires a comprehensive review of any current Fly Neighbourly Agreements covering the Capertee Valley and the surrounding World Heritage-listed national parks and declared wilderness zones, specifically Wollemi National Park, the Wollemi Wilderness, and the Gardens of Stone National Park.

Given that this proposal is also to enable the Emirates’ Wolgan Valley Marriott Hilton Lodge to have the drawcard of Helicopter Scenic/Joy Flights as a means of transport for their guests,

I find that I am unable to accept this Mod-4 as a legitimate request for a temporary modification to the number of helicopter flights as common sense prevails.

I look forward to a response to my very pressing concerns as soon as possible.

Yours sincerely,
Veronica Nolan
28 Coorain Street
Glen Davis NSW 2846
Telephone: 0423506210
Email: [email protected]

I object to the proposed MODIFICATION TO MP06_0310. The reason for my objection is that the proponent has failed to provide any justification for the most consequential aspect of the modification, namely the long-term increase in the weekly flight limit to 50 (i.e. the limit which will apply after, rather than during, the restoration of two-wheel drive access to the Wolgan Resort).

I provide the details of my objection in the attached.

It’s too many!

30 helicopters divided into daylight hours, it’s nearly 3 an hour.

They can’t control their comings and goings, privacy is important to us and in the past we had helicopters hovering overhead (it’s unacceptable).

We live in a small valley and noise pollution carries its too much. What about our privacy and disruption to our communities, health and environment.

We moved from the big city not to have noise pollution and not to live under a flight path.

We want to listen to birds and animals not smell jet fuel.

Environmental impact would be too much in such a small area.

I support the project

I strongly object to Modification 4 of MP06_0310. As a long term local resident of the Blue Mountains, I have seen so much change and development that has altered the amenity of living in this World Heritage Area, in particular the volume of aircraft of all shapes and sizes.
This proposal is unnecessary because the Wolgan Road is reopening in August 2026, so the increased volume of helicopters will not be needed even in the short term.
There has been no EIS conducted to establish the impact on sensitive areas and on residential areas of the helicopter pathways.
Although stated as being a temporary proposal, it will create a precedent and in all probability will become a permanent fixture.
1. The Proposal is Unnecessary (The Wolgan Gap Road is re-opening)
• The resort justifies 210 helicopter flights per week by claiming the Wolgan Gap Road is closed. However, the road is scheduled to reopen to 2WD traffic by August 2026 (Lithgow Mercury, 7 May 2026).
• If the road is safe enough for heavy truck logistics (linen, food, renovation materials), it is safe enough for guests in 2WD vehicles.
• This modification is a permanent "fix" for a very temporary problem. Meaning, the Emirates is unlikely to dial back its flight frequencies once the road is opened in August 2026.
2. Excessive Flight Volume
• The original approval allowed only 4 flights per week. This proposal seeks 210 flights per week (30 per day).
• This effectively transforms a private resort helipad into a busy commercial heliport, which was never the intent of the original development.
3. Flawed Noise Assessments
• The noise reports provided by the resort use obsolete data that predates the creation of the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area (SCA).
• The assessment ignores "sensitive receivers" like hikers and campers. Unlike residents, visitors to the Gardens of Stone don't have walls and can’t install double-glazing to block out helicopter rotor noise.
• Studies (like those from the US Forest Service) show that park users are 10dB(A) less tolerant of aircraft noise than people in residential areas. You visit parks for peace and quiet, not the noisy racket caused by helicopters.
4. Impact on Public Investment and Tourism
• The NSW Government is investing $50 million into the Gardens of Stone SCA for walking tracks, lookouts and campgrounds, as well as the inappropriate glamping resorts proposed in pagoda landscapes.
• Constant helicopter noise will degrade these public assets, ruin the "peace and quiet" visitors expect, and could lead to a net economic loss for the region’s tourism industry, as the majority of park visitors won’t come to the Gardens of Stone once it has a reputation for constant helicopter noise.
5. Environmental impacts disregarded
• The modification does not consider the adverse impacts of the proposed helicopter overflights above Newnes Plateau passing directly over the Pagoda Walk, a public camping ground on the walk, Birds Rock Lookout and Forest Camp ruining the acoustic amenity of these high use visitor areas.
• The proponent’s report understates the impacted World Heritage Area by nearly half (by omitting the Gardens of Stone National Park from the property).
6. Lack of Trust and Accountability
• The resort has a history of unfulfilled obligations, specifically regarding land exchanges with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) that have been outstanding since 2007.
• There is no guarantee that this "temporary" increase in flights won't become a permanent fixture once established. In fact, its likely that the transport to the resort by helicopter will be permanent, once established.
7. Safety Concerns
• The proposal lacks a rigorous risk assessment regarding potential mid-air collisions, particularly given the high elevation of the Newnes Plateau, the frequency of the proposed flights and use of one flight approach path in and out of the resort.
8. Helicopter noise concentration in the lower Blue Mountains
• I object to the intensified noise footprint caused by the ‘vertical sandwich’ of the June 2026 WSI airspace design. The rising terrain between Glenbrook and Springwood will force helicopters to fly at or near legal minimum altitudes to avoid commercial flight paths. This will concentrate the noise of 30 daily Emirates helicopter movements directly over lower Blue Mountains townships and the World Heritage National Park, significantly degrading the acoustic amenity of the region.
The Department should refuse this modification based on the above facts alone and the excessive noise impacts that will occur over the sensitive Gardens of Stone region.

I object to Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort - Mod 4 (Project Number: MP06_0310, Mod 4) and request it be rejected. 200+ low helicopter flights per week through sensitive natural areas - not to mention the inhabited parts of the Blue Mountains en route - is far too many, and totally unnecessary with the imminent reopening of the Wolgan Valley road to 2wd traffic.

I am a bushwalker and visit the gardens of stone area 4 times a year. To think helicopters will be flying low over head will spoil my enjoyment of the area, and impact on my bird watching activities
The road is scheduled to be reopened in August 2026.
Thankyou

I have been a regular visitor over the years to the Wolgan valley and strongly object to the proposed increase in helicopter flights-this is primarily a national park for wildlife to live without the encroachment of constant persistent noise from human activity-not to mention that people who visit the area will be severely impacted by the noise as I have been a witness to just how much noise these helicopters make-this area is for people to enjoy nature and not to be drowned out by helicopters constantly flying back and forth-and I believe the road is soon to open in August so there is no need of the sheer greed of operators to ruin it for everyone else. Please reflect this proposal.

Previous submission didnt appear to work properly - this is not meant to be a duplicate submission

I object to the increase in helicopter movements in and out of the Wolgan Valley.
I believe that my rights to the safe, private and peaceful enjoyment of my home and the surrounding environment will be violated. The increase proposed is unwarranted and is inconsiderate to the local inhabitants both human and animal.
This proposal does not take into account any consideration to the environmental impact of the pollution created by an extra 210 helicopter movements burning fuel and dumping it into such a small valley. The question must be asked what affect this will have on the native flora, fauna, air and water quality long term.
No environmental impact statements have been provided to the local community, that I have been made aware of, and as such believe that the proposal to increase the number of helicopter movements be denied.
The current proposal states an unwarranted increase in helicopter flights as road access has been restored. There is no need for this increase, other than for the Qne and Only Resort to gain a financial profit benefit at the expense of all other stakeholders.
The increase is also for 15 extra flights. This means that there must obviously then be, 30 aircraft movements a day, which equals 210 movements a week - ie. "in and then out". Given that there are only 24 hours in a day, this equates to 1.25 flights an hour more than they are allowed presently.
The helicopters of course will not be flying for 24 hours a day, so a conservative estimate would most likely determine that the flights would mainly occur during daylight hours (8-10 hours), which of course makes the situation more unbearable/unlivable for all those that reside and recreate in the valley.
This new calculation then works out to be closer to about 4 flights an hour. This is unacceptable, these numbers are more reflective of commercial airports like Bankstown or Mascot. I put it to you, that this would be like living in a war zone.
I beseech you, to not allow this increase to protect the peace and serenity for all the residents of the Wolgan Valley.
Please consider the flora and fauna and natural beauty of The Wolgan Valley and the devastating impact that will be caused by allowing the Emirates Resort to conduct their business in such a selfish manner and without any consideration for the local community.

I object to the modification because of the proximity of the proposed flight path to my home....... see attachment

Garden of Stones National Park must never have Tourism helicopters.
HELICOPTER NOISE DISTURBS WILDLIFE AND PARK VISITORS.
The public visit NPs to enjoy a relating wilderness experience.
Animal welfare is a priority for all NPs
Helicopters used for tourism will have a devastating effect on wildlife and will impact the natural tranquility of the park.
Helicopter noise disturbs native fauna causing distress and can easily damage threatened flora.
Low level flying is a high risk operation that has lead to many crashes.
Garden of Stones NP is for the public to enjoy in a natural way.
Construction of helicopter landing pads and additional access roads will alter the parks natural landscape in a detrimental manner.
Any attempt to profit from an unnecessary activity should be immediately rejected.
National Parks are Public Land of outstanding natural beauty, ecological diversity and cultural significance and are not to be made available for developers to make profit.
It will be an impossible task to balance the greed of Tourism Operators with the conservation requirements of a National Park.
Protection of our wildlands is critical in order to preserve biodiversity and not compromise wilderness values.
Please protect our National Park and reject this helicopter proposal.
Regards
Ron Elliott Ph 0429126945