COMM GAMES STARS LAND, CHOPPERS TAKE TO SKIES
THE Commonwealth Games cavalry are coming.
The Australian Defence Force has told Gold Coasters not to be surprised by the regular sound and sight of military choppers in the sky in the leadup to the Games kick off.
Military vehicles have al- ready started popping up on the Gold Coast, which is expected to host more than 3000 extra police and military during the Games.
Police and Defence Force staff have already worked closely together during a recent security and bomb sweep of the Athletes’ Village at Parklands.
A fleet of army helicopters will provide Queensland Police and partner organisations additional flexibility and agility to respond to a range of security situations.
Major General Paul McLachlan, Commander of the ADF’s support to the Games, said locals and visitors should expect Army helicopters flying over the Gold Coast from now and during the Games.
“Army helicopters will be flying during the day and night starting with familiarisation training before the Games commence. The rehearsals will help minimise the impact to the public should the Army be called on to support the Queensland Police response to an incident during the Games,” Major General McLachlan said.