Richard Wagschall

Wests Ride to Fly MTB

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter operates 24-7 from three bases in Belmont, Tamworth and Lismore to provide the highest standard of aeromedical, search and rescue services for all people in Northern NSW.

The Service responds to a diverse range of incidents requiring aeromedical support, from people suffering life threatening medical conditions, to those injured on roads, rural properties, workplaces, the bush, ocean and waterways and sporting fields.

The Service also undertakes hundreds of inter-hospital transfers each year to connect patients in regional hospitals with major trauma and intensive care services in major centres where they can receive the specialist medical care they need. 

Four AW139 aircraft service an estimated 1.5 million people throughout Northern NSW, from the Hawkesbury River to the Queensland border. Every emergency response mission includes a Pilot, Aircrew Officer, NSW Ambulance Critical Care Paramedic and NSW Health Doctor and depending on the specific needs of each patient may include a specialist nursing professional. Crews are supported by experienced planners and licenced in-house Aircraft Maintenance Engineers at each of its bases.

Since being established in Newcastle (1975), Lismore (1982) and Tamworth (2000), the Service has been ever grateful for the support of sponsors, volunteers, community groups and donors like you. All money raised supports your local service. Thank you for supporting the “Community’s Own” Westpac Rescue Helicopter in Northern NSW.