About Westpac rescue helicopter service
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service: Providing Life-Saving Aeromedical Services Across Northern NSW
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is a non-profit organization that provides emergency aeromedical services to the people of Northern New South Wales. The service operates four rescue helicopters from three bases, which are strategically located to ensure quick response times and maximum coverage across the region. With a team of highly trained pilots, doctors, paramedics, and support staff, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is dedicated to saving lives and making a difference in the community.
History
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service was established in 1975 as a joint venture between the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA). The first helicopter was based at Lismore Airport and operated by SLSA volunteers. In 1982, Westpac Banking Corporation became the major sponsor of the service, providing financial support for new helicopters and equipment.
Over the years, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service has expanded its operations to cover more areas in Northern NSW. Today, it operates from three bases - Lismore in the north-eastern part of NSW; Tamworth in central-western NSW; and Belmont on Lake Macquarie near Newcastle - providing coverage for over 1.5 million people across an area of approximately 80,000 square kilometers.
Services
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service provides emergency aeromedical services including search-and-rescue missions; medical evacuations; inter-hospital transfers; organ transplant retrievals; firefighting support; flood relief operations; and community education programs.
The service operates four helicopters - two AgustaWestland AW139s based at Lismore and Tamworth respectively; one Bell 412EP based at Belmont near Newcastle; and one Bell UH-1H Huey helicopter used for training purposes.
Each helicopter is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment including defibrillators, ventilators, and ultrasound machines. The helicopters are also fitted with night vision goggles, which enable the pilots to fly in low-light conditions.
The medical team on board each helicopter consists of a doctor and a paramedic who are specially trained in aeromedical retrieval. They work together to provide advanced life support and critical care to patients during transport.
Community Support
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is not just about saving lives; it is also about giving back to the community. The service relies heavily on community support for funding, as it receives no government funding for its operations.
The service runs various fundraising events throughout the year including charity balls, golf days, and raffles. It also has a dedicated team of volunteers who help with administration tasks; fundraising activities; and community education programs.
In addition, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service provides educational programs for schools and community groups across Northern NSW. These programs aim to raise awareness about safety issues such as water safety; bushfire safety; road safety; and first aid.
Conclusion
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is an essential service that plays a vital role in providing emergency aeromedical services across Northern NSW. With its highly trained staff, state-of-the-art equipment, and strategic base locations, the service is able to respond quickly to emergencies and save lives.
However, the service relies heavily on community support for funding. By supporting Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service through donations or volunteering your time or skills you can help ensure that this life-saving service continues to operate at full capacity now -and into the future- so that they can continue their mission of saving lives across Northern NSW communities every day!