An odd interaction with the Botany Police
 

While I was out at the mound today, a state police truck pulled up in front of the fence. It then proceeded to drive up on to the mound itself. At first, Matt and I thought that they were just up there to have a break, but alas; they emerged.
Heading over towards us, they asked us what we were doing. One even said that she knew we were photographing airplanes, but still wanted to know what we were doing. Allegedly, there had been a complaint that someone was spotting? I don't know, it seemed very strange. What is even more odd is that the mound is AFP land, and furthermore the owner of this forum often speaks with AFP about our plans.
I have to ask: what was going on?

Errr...the mound is 'AFP land'? The state cops have just as much right to be there as the feds and I've seen them during all hours of the day and night patrolling around there.

If they took no action on the spot, then I think it's fair to say there was nothing going on.

When I was out there today, there were a few people there - one had a gawdy airplane shirt on.

Maybe they had a complaint about a crime against fashion. :D

Where, exactly, is 'the mound' ??

Stae law applies in Commonwealth places
 

In case anyone mistakenly believes that State law doesn't apply on Shep's Mound: http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/c...970376/s4.html

Google Earth, enter -33.945122,151.180447

"What is going on?" The police are doing their job!! I can't recall how many times either a State or Federal officer has approached me at an airport saying that they have had a query/complaint from the public about me taking plane photos and this being 'suspicious behaviour'. Just tell them what you are doing and show some photos... they usually accept that... after a quick ID check of course!!

Damian

but why he have to do an ID check, have you broken law?

Umm, don't know how to do that. Is it near the fire station?

Police use ID checks as a means to an end. No on this occasion you may not have broken a law however with a simple ID check they can see what you of done in the past and if you are currently wanted for anything/in breach of bail etc etc. There was some media today about a police blitz on the railways and something like over 2,000 arrests were made in 6 months. You would find that many, many of these arrests probably stemmed from a simple ID check.

No different then them punching in your cars number plate into their computer while they are following you.

Unless you have something to hide there should be no concern in given the cops your ID. Remember you can always ask them to see there badge as well.

Cheers

M