The Westpac Rescue Helicopter is holding their annual end of financial year appeal.
Last year 449 people were assisted by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, with 279 trips to the Mid Coast region.
CEO, Richard Jones said across the months of June, July and August, the service is predicting another busy winter.
“Traditionally this is a busy time of year for the service, last June we were called to 132 missions across our three bases in Newcastle, Tamworth and Lismore. That is an average of four missions per day,” he said.
Missions included motor vehicle, motorbike and quad bike accidents, search and rescues, urgent inter-hospital transfers, farming accidents and neonatal transfers.
People were assisted from a diverse range of locations, spanning from north of the Hawkesbury River, right up to the Queensland border.
With the winter months ahead of the service, Mr Jones is calling for the community to support the end of financial year appeal and donate before the June 30.
“Since 1975 the Westpac Rescue Helicopter has relied on community support,” he said.
“In 2018 our end of financial year appeal is an important part of our annual fundraising program.
“Small or large, every amount donated will stay locally and will help to ensure that the Rescue Helicopter can continue to fly 24-7 as a free service.”
By the end of the year the service is expected to assist close to 2000 people, and not one of those people assisted will have to pay to use this vital service.
“Whilst the Rescue Helicopter crew are on the front line of the Service, their job is only made possible because of the generous people and businesses throughout Northern NSW,” Mr Jones added.
“We are ever so grateful for the continued support we receive and cannot thank our community enough for helping us to continue our life saving work.”
You can help save lives in your local community and reduce your tax bill by making a tax deductible donation before June 30.
Visit www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/eofy-appeal or call the service on 1800155155.
