We first met Danny Eather at the end of 2017 when after years of volunteering for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) he came on board as the Regional Partnerships Officer. As he moves into another role within the organisation it’s time to meet the new Regional Partnerships Officer for the Upper Hunter, Norma Burri.

Norma has hit the ground running, taking the reins of the first big event of the year in the Hunter recently at the Hunter Valley Charity Golf Day.

“I’m really enjoying getting out and meeting all the supporters, individuals and businesses as well as the volunteer groups. This job is bringing all my skills and background together; from marketing to engagement with people, event management, and knowing I am using those skills to be part of something amazing for a vital service – that’s the best feeling at the end of the day.”

Norma grew up in Lake Macquarie, spent some time in Sydney and lived in London for a few years before settling down in the Hunter Valley.

“My son was born here; in fact, his middle name is Hunter! He works in the mining industry, as does my daughter.

“When I tell people I changed jobs to work for the helicopter service, people don’t even ask me what I’m doing they just think it’s fantastic because it’s with such a vital service. Everyone has a story and a connection, the community side of it means a lot to me.

“I’ll be putting my edge on things though ensuring it aligns with what the service requires. I will really enjoy working with the community and involving the volunteers and community in all our events,” said Norma.

Danny has been involved with the WRHS for about 15 years. When he took on the role of Regional Partnerships Officer it was the first time someone had been appointed to the job based in the Upper Hunter with the goal of increasing awareness of the WRHS in the region.

“When I arrived in the Upper Hunter everyone knew the service, but it was how I forged a stronger connection between the community and the service that I’m most proud of.

“I am most proud of the relationships and the people. The helicopter service was not something new when I started, everyone knew about it, but to be able to solidify the relationship between the community and the helicopter was a very powerful thing. I am proud to have been able to turn the relationship into something magical.

“The big thing for me has also been saying thank you to everyone who supports us. People sometimes see someone coming from a charity and expect to be asked for a handout. I have always made sure we said thank you to those community groups, workplaces, coal miners, taking the time to say thank you strengthens that relationship.”

Danny couldn’t be more excited about having Norma on board while he takes the role of Business and Community Partnerships Manager.

“To have someone who is equally passionate about the community and as equally connected is so important so we can continue the work that we do.

“I’m excited to have someone like Norma continue the great work while I work with the rest of our team and our partners across Northern NSW.

“We celebrate 50 years of operation this year, and in those 50 years there are many people who have been touched by the service, so it’ll be a special year ahead!”