The Westpac Rescue Helicopter is a reassuring sight in North Western skies, although sadly the arrival of the chopper is usually in response to a serious need.
Finding the funding to keep the service flying is an ongoing financial challenge, with an important role played by groups like the Narrabri and Wee Waa helicopter support groups, but now the service has been assisted with a grant from an international aviation body.
The grant is a welcome monetary boost, but also a recognititon of the invaluable role of the helicopter service.
The International Society of Aircraft Transport Trading has provided a range of funding grants for non-profit organisations in the aviation industry throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is one of the recipients of a $36,000 grant, alongside organisations like Air Serv International, Mission Aviation Fellowship, Angel Flight NE, Angel Flight Soars, Royal Flying Doctor Service Victoria and Amref Health Africa ONLUS.
“ISTAT has been a great supporter of our service in the past, including a grant towards flight simulator training for our pilots as part of their advanced training and development,” Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service chief executive Richard Jones OAM said.
This essential training comes at a significant, but necessary cost to the service, which is where the generosity of ISTAT was greatly appreciated.
“While our fundraising activity has been significantly impacted by COVID, we are grateful that international organisations such as ISTAT have recognised and acknowledged the challenges that we face,” Mr Jones said.
“We continue to fly frontline emergency response during the pandemic, ensuring that for those most in need, we remain focussed on responding 24/7 with the best possible aeromedical support available.”
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