If you view his offence as a trivial one and the penalty as being too severe, then you fail to understand the gravity with which aviation offences are viewed in Australia.
ERRR....Without wings, it does not meet the definition of an "Aircraft"
The fact it used to be an aircraft,is totally irelevant.
It was used on the road, Therefore it was a Road Vehicle (which failed the roadworthiness requirements)
If the Magistrate and Plod concerned, live long enough to see the Terrafugia* in production, they are really going to get scrambled brains.
$5k is probably not much more than a week's wages there, anyway
REALLY? Where do I sign up?
*other brands are available from dream-vendors worldwide.