It seems an understatement to say the region is reliant on the Westpac Rescue Helicopter service, considering it was deployed on 458 missions across the New England and North West in the last year (July 2023 – June 2024).
At every hour of every day, pilots, crew members, paramedics and doctors are ready to take the call and fly to communities to respond to incidents and conduct inter-hospital transfers to ensure people can receive medical attention.
The life-saving role of the rescue chopper hits close to home for many North West locals, and that’s why it’s such a highly valued service in our community.
No one ever wants to be in a situation that means they need to call WRHS, however, it is more than comforting to know the rescue helicopter is there for friends and family in their time of need.
The Wee Waa Westpac Helicopter Support Group plays a critical role, from assisting to supporting fundraising initiatives across the district.
The local WRHS group held its annual general meeting recently and WRHS volunteers’ coordinator Kim Newling made the trip from Tamworth to attend.
Newly elected committee members include secretary Noelle Cruickshank, president Sue Stove, treasurer Julie Crutcher.
WRHS provided a breakdown of the 458 NENW missions for July 2023 – June 2024.
Medical conditions were the reason for 255 of the flights, 63 were due to motor vehicle incidents, 45 for motorcycle incidents, 19 falls, 19 industrial related incidents, 16 farming, seven burns, seven sporting, one air transport, one water and 25 were categorised as ‘other’.
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