I think most of the general public assume that there would be some form of ‘air traffic control’ where RPT operates in Australia.
The knowledge that their safety is partly dependent on the uncertain diligence of Joe Bloggs in his Jabiiru would be pretty alarming to many.
Next time you are talking to friends ask them if not having a Tower at Ballina (then explain what that means), would stop them buying a $40.00 fare to Bryon Gateway? I would guess that the cheap fare would allay any fears they might have about a concept they have no understanding of.