I was encouraged to pay a visit to the tower at YSCN and it wasn't a problem at all. All it took was a quick introductory phone call from one of the instructors, who checked that it wasn't an inconvenient time. The fact that Camden is not a Security Controlled Airport probably helped. I'm not sure what the rules are at Bankstown. I did ask if it was at all possible to check out the tower at Sydney but, as you might expect, this would be all but impossible in this post-September 11 environment without a very good operational reason.
I got the impression that the folks in the tower actually appreciated having the opportunity to show a student how it all operates as much as I appreciated the chance to see things from the other side. I'd strongly recommend making the effort if this is at all possible for you.
I've also been told that it doesn't hurt to go armed with a packet of chocolate bikkies!
