Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service

Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service has provided aeromedical care to Northern New South Wales since 1975. The organization stands ready to respond at all times. It operates from bases in Belmont, Tamworth, and Lismore. Its crews serve approximately 1.5 million people across the region.

NSW Ambulance tasks the service through Triple Zero calls. Crews respond to emergencies that include trauma accidents and urgent transfers between hospitals. They also perform search and rescue missions. Winch extractions allow crews to reach patients in areas where ground access is difficult or impossible. The service cares for patients of all ages, from newborn babies to older adults who need specialist treatment.

The fleet includes AW139 helicopters that are equipped for critical care. Each aircraft carries a medical team that includes an NSW Health doctor and an NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic. This team can deliver advanced treatment while the patient is in flight. The helicopters act as flying intensive care units that bridge the gap between remote locations and major hospitals.

Training and safety form a core part of daily operations. The service runs programs for aircrew, engineers, and medical staff. These programs ensure that teams maintain high professional standards. The service works as an integral link in the NSW emergency care chain. This role is especially vital for rural and remote communities that lie far from trauma centers.

Community support keeps the service operating. Fundraising, donations, business partnerships, and volunteer efforts provide essential backing. The organization runs events, raffles, and op shops to raise funds. People can also contribute through workplace giving, bequests, and the HeliHelper program. This community partnership helps maintain a sustainable rescue service for Northern NSW.

Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service publishes rescue stories and mission updates on its website and social media channels. These accounts highlight real outcomes for individuals and families across the region. The stories show how rapid air response affects lives in local communities.

Services

• Emergency aeromedical services
• Inter hospital transfers
• Search and rescue
• Winch extractions
• Trauma assistance
• Critical care transport
• Emergency response