There were plenty of smiles at Blacksmiths Public School in June with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter (WRHS) touching down for a visit.
It’s part of the Service’s school landing program that teaches students about the helicopter and the vital role it plays in the emergency response chain throughout NSW.
Students and staff alike at Blacksmiths said the visit was highly anticipated and was timed perfectly with their Thank A First Responder Day celebrations.
“We’re very happy to celebrate their work and express our gratitude as part of our Thank A First Responder Day morning tea,” said relieving Principal Liam Sumbak of Blacksmiths Public School.
“To be rewarded with a landing of the helicopter makes it a doubly special event for us. Awareness of what these people do is vital to continuing and building support for their efforts which save countless lives every year,” he said.
Westpac financially supports the school landing program. Regional General Manager of Westpac for the Hunter and Mid North Coast Kasey Nairn said they are proud to play their part.
“Landings like these are a wonderful way to help educate students about how the Service operates and supports our community throughout the Hunter and surrounding region.
“We’re thrilled to help facilitate such a unique opportunity for students to hear some of the amazing insights about the Service directly from the pilot and aircrew officer, alongside the helicopter’s critical care medical team from NSW Ambulance and NSW Health,” Kasey said.
JOIN THE HELICOPTER COLLECTIVE
The Helicopter Collective is another way businesses can support the WRHS. It is specifically designed for small to medium sized, local and community minded businesses seeking to do their bit to support the WRHS.
Designed for small to medium sized local businesses, annual memberships start from as little as $330 per year (inc GST) and are tax deductible as a business expense.
There is no better time to join the Helicopter Collective than this year as the Service marks its 50th year in operation.
“The Service was formally launched in Newcastle in December 1975 and as we celebrate this incredible journey, I want to take a moment to thank you. Your support has been a crucial part of everything that we have achieved,” said WRHS CEO Steven Underwood.
“When we think about 50 years of service, we realise it’s not just about the time that has passed, it’s about the provision of critical care and support in a time of need. The times when a life hung in the balance. These are the moments we remember, because they are not just about us, they are about the patient requiring critical care, their families and loved ones and, about you, the community that we serve.
“Your belief in what we do and your generosity have built the very foundations of our Service.”
| For more information on the Helicopter Collective contact your local Regional Partnership Officer Norma Burri on 0408335055 or email: norma.burri@rescuehelicopter.com.au |
