BMA CQ Rescue

BMA CQ Rescue, usually called CQ Rescue, is a community funded rescue helicopter service based in Mackay, Queensland. It operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It covers Central and North Queensland, including large remote areas, mines, and coastal towns.

The service provides critical aeromedical care and urgent search and rescue. Its crews respond to serious accidents, medical emergencies, and search and rescue operations. The service completed 778 lifesaving missions in 2025.

The rescue fleet is two AW139 helicopters. One is the primary aircraft and one is a backup. They are twin engine helicopters with advanced avionics, a five bladed main rotor, and high speed capability. They are based at the BMA CQ Rescue hangar in Mackay.

Each rescue helicopter carries a skilled team of pilots, aircrew officers, critical care paramedics, and doctors. The crew works together in high pressure situations and is highly trained and experienced.

CQ Rescue is a community service and not a private air ambulance for hire. The service depends on donations, sponsors, and fundraising. BMA is its major partner, and the Queensland Government health department is also a major partner.

The public can support the service in several ways. Options include one time donations, regular giving, business sponsorship, and community fundraising. The program also includes the Change for Choppers appeal, a fun run, a family fun day, a charity gala, and volunteer roles.

The mission is to provide the community and stakeholders with a sustainable and supported aeromedical and emergency helicopter rescue service. The service runs every day of the year, around the clock.

Services

• Emergency aeromedical response
• Search and rescue
• Critical care paramedic crews
• Community fundraising
• Volunteer opportunities
• Business sponsorship
• Workplace giving
• Helicopter tours