It’s ‘Back to Base’ for Rescue Club Members

Westpac rescue helicopter at Tamworth
17th Oct 2023

Past patients who have been assisted by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service across Northern NSW are invited to a special visit, tour and morning tea on Sunday October 22nd, 10am to 11.30am at the Tamworth Base.
The event is an opportunity to reunite these special guests, known as Rescue Club Members, with pilots, aircrew and the helicopter’s critical care medical team who played a crucial role in their respective rescues.
The service’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, James Lawrence, said the event provides past patients a better understanding of how the service operates as a vital part of the state’s emergency care chain.
“They are a very select group of people, whose day started out just like any other, only to take a turn that would remain etched in their minds forever. For many of them, meeting and talking with service staff, medical crew, pilots and aircrew also helps them in the recovery process. For others, it’s a way of connecting with people who have been in similar situations,” Mr Lawrence said.
“Our last Rescue Club functions were held in 2019, with the pandemic restricting base access for all but essential personnel since that time. Now, after nearly four years, we are excited to welcome past patients back to meet those who played such a vital role in their lives.”
Today, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service operates in partnership with NSW Ambulance and NSW Health, to deliver the highest standard of aeromedical and rescue services to those in need across a state-wide network.
A NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic and NSW Health doctor are on board each AW139 aircraft to provide the highest quality critical care where it is needed most.
People who have been assisted by the service and are interested in attending should register at https://rescuehelicopter.com.au/events/rescue-club/