A recent inquest into a tragic helicopter crash at Sea World has revealed that pilot Ashley Jenkinson had a mental breakdown and used cocaine shortly before the incident. Meanwhile, the City of Perth is set to block a proposal for a helipad by Gina Rinehart's company, and the Australian government is facing challenges in implementing a ban on social media for children under 16. Additionally, political tensions have surfaced in parliament regarding racism, highlighted by a controversial stunt from Senator Pauline Hanson.

Helicopter Crash Investigation
Ashley Jenkinson, the pilot involved in the Sea World helicopter crash on January 2, 2023, was reported to have inhaled a white powder at a New Year’s Eve party, according to testimony given at the coroner's inquest. Jenkinson, 40, was one of four fatalities when his helicopter collided with another during tourist flights over the Gold Coast. The inquest is examining the circumstances surrounding the crash, focusing on Jenkinson's mental state and drug use prior to the incident.

Perth Helipad Proposal Blocked
In a separate development, the City of Perth has recommended that councillors block a proposal from Hancock Iron Ore, owned by Gina Rinehart, to construct a helipad at its new headquarters in West Perth. The company argues that a helipad is essential for modern business operations. However, local businesses have expressed concerns about the potential noise disruption, leading to the city's recommendation against the project. The final decision will be made by the council in the coming weeks.

Social Media Restrictions for Minors
The Australian government is working on a plan to restrict social media access for users under 16, which is expected to take effect in the coming weeks. Communications Minister Anika Wells acknowledged that the implementation may not be seamless initially. The social media app Lemon8, which has seen a rise in popularity among younger users, will begin restricting its user base to individuals over 16 starting next week. The eSafety Commission is monitoring the app closely to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Political Outcry Over Racism
In parliament, Deputy Greens Leader Mehreen Faruqi has condemned Senator Pauline Hanson for a controversial stunt in which she wore a burqa, labeling it as a reflection of the racist atmosphere in the chamber. Faruqi criticized both major political parties for allowing racism to persist and emphasized the need for genuine respect among parliamentarians. This incident has sparked widespread outrage and discussions about the need for accountability in political discourse.

Wrap-up
These incidents highlight ongoing challenges in Australia, from aviation safety and social media regulations to the pressing issue of racism in politics. As investigations continue and new policies are introduced, the implications for public safety, youth engagement, and social equity remain significant.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team