SW chopper marks two year’s of helping flights

The crew behind the invaluable service of South West’s RAC Rescue Helicopter has been commended as the chopper marked two years stationed in Bunbury.

The rescue chopper has flown 590 missions since first landing in Bunbury on February 8, 2016.

Bunbury MLA Don Punch said the contribution from those who ensured the chopper delivered a vital life-saving service for the community needed to be acknowledged.

“I would like to congratulate all those involved with the RAC Rescue Helicopter, the pilots, flight crews, paramedics and support staff for the outstanding service they have delivered to the South West and Great Southern community over the past two years,” Mr Punch said.

“Most people would be unaware of the level of dedication required to be part of the RAC Rescue Helicopter Service, so I would particularly like to acknowledge the huge commitment made by the flight crews and paramedics to their own training to reach the highest possible standards of service for our community.

“The RAC Rescue Helicopter and its crews have saved the lives of many people and in doing so have changed for the better the lives of many families in our region and I thank them for their work.”

Victims of car crashes have been among those who benefited most from the service with 78 per cent of missions involving vehicle incidents.

The chopper has helped with 30 search and rescue operations and more than 70 life-saving hospital transfers.

It comes as the State Government last year secured $27.9 million in long-term funding for the service following uncertainty.

“Time and again over the past two years the RAC Rescue Helicopter service has proven its worth to our community and in doing so has secured the absolute support of myself, of the Government and of the people of the region,” Mr Punch said.