The 935 strong Mining and Energy Union (MEU) Bayswater Lodge in the Upper Hunter has given back to their community with a generous $30,000 to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS).
It’s not just a one-off contribution either, the Bayswater Lodge members support the Service year-round. The Lodge is the highest contributing workplace group in the Northern District with regular payroll donations through the WRHS Workplace Giving Program.
Bayswater Lodge President Matt Sutton said the Service plays an indispensable role in the region and is quite literally a lifeline for workers, families, and communities.
“With the Lodge ending in 2030 to align with Mount Arthur, we have a good amount of money in the bank so there is no better way to spend what’s left than to make a donation to such a worthy cause.
“In mining the Service is close to our hearts. We have a number of members across site who have had to use it, and we know our donation will go a long way.
“The $30,000 donation gives us all a sense of pride knowing it will make a difference and help keep the helicopters in the air and available 24/7, 365 days a year,” said Matt.
Lodge member Steven Lloyd is one of those members whose life was saved by access to sophisticated, aeromedical services such as the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, when he had a horrific motorcycle accident on Edderton Road. He suffered a long list of internal injuries, a traumatic brain injury, and a stretched spinal cord and was flown to the John Hunter Hospital.
“Service’s like the Westpac Rescue Helicopter are saving lives every day, they are the angels of the sky, there’s no other words for them.
“I am really honoured to have been a part of this donation. Even with another zero on the cheque, it wouldn’t be enough money for what the Service does. I’m so privileged to have played a part.
“No one goes to work thinking they won’t make it home, so to know this Service is here if you need it is huge,” Steven said.
WRHS Regional Partnerships Officer for the Hunter region Norma Burri said they are deeply appreciative of the support from Bayswater Lodge.
“The Bayswater Lodge has been strong supporters of our Service for many years and go above and beyond to support us. The relationship built over many years reflects the genuine commitment both organisations have; beyond financial contributions, the MEU recognises the critical role the Service plays in protecting workers and communities across the region, creating a strong and mutually beneficial partnership.
“The mining industry relies on the availability of rapid emergency response and aeromedical retrieval services for workers in remote or high-risk environments. As a result, there is a strong industry recognition of the value the Service provides,” Norma said.
