For communities across Northern NSW, the summer months signal holidays, time to connect with family and friends, celebrations with colleagues and the opportunity to travel.
However, for Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, the summer months are usually the busiest time of year for their crews.
In anticipation of this demand, the aeromedical service has launched a Summer Safety Appeal. Funds raised will ensure the Westpac Rescue Helicopters are ready to respond 24-7 from three bases at Belmont, Tamworth and Lismore.
It is hoped community support for the Summer Safety Appeal will bolster the Service’s funds which have been impacted significantly by COVID during 2020, with regular fundraising and events postponed or cancelled.
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service CEO, Richard Jones OAM said that with the busiest period of the year here, they are hoping this appeal will encourage people to donate and make this time easier for the crew.
“Traditionally summer is our busiest period, with people on holidays and outdoors taking advantage of the warm weather,” Richard said.
“As COVID restrictions ease, we anticipate that there will be an even greater demand for our services this summer, with people who have endured lockdown and border restrictions, making the most of their new-found freedom.
“Northern NSW has many attractions that will draw visitors into our region, plus we service our normal population of over 1.5 million people,” he said.
And despite road safety messages and reminders for people to travel and stay safe, Richard said their crews anticipate being called upon regularly across summer to provide lifesaving services to those in need.
“With our normal fundraising and support activities cancelled during 2020, this Appeal is important for us to ensure we can continue to respond 24-7 across our service area and we are confident that our many communities, businesses and supporters will rally behind the Service during this time,” he concluded.
To be part of every mission flown by Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service you can support their Summer Safety Appeal campaign via their website.
IMAGE | Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service crew in action.
