Residents of Shoalhaven are participating in a poll initiated by the Department of Defence to decide which military helicopter should replace the 'chopper on a stick' landmark that was recently removed due to safety concerns. The residents are choosing between a Huey and a Seahawk helicopter, representing significant historical military aircraft. The decision comes after the UH-1B Iroquois 'Huey' helicopter, which had been a fixture in Nowra for decades, was taken down due to deterioration that posed safety risks.

The previous landmark, which greeted travelers on the NSW South Coast, has been a recognized icon of the area since the Vietnam War era when it was prominently displayed on a pole as if in flight. Its removal marks the end of an era, leading to discussions about what to replace it with in order to maintain local heritage and community identity. The poll will allow residents to express their preferences for which aircraft they feel represents their community best.

Voting for the poll concludes on March 26, providing a timeline for decision-making as the community reflects on its history and future. This initiative is not only about choosing a landmark but also engages residents in a dialogue about local history, military heritage, and the significance of such symbols in maintaining community identity in the Shoalhaven region.