CapRescue saves real lives across Central Queensland thanks to real heroes donating to their annual appeal and supporting the service in their local communities to ensure everyone has access to life saving care when they need it.

One of those people who needed it was Springsure’s Pete Hamilton.

“I never thought I would see a rescue helicopter on my own property. But on that day… I needed it more than anything.”

February 28 last year began like any other for Pete on the land. He was preparing to empty a grain silo when everything changed in an instant. The structure gave way without warning, collapsing and burying him under 50 tonnes of wheat.

“I remember the roar, then silence, and the weight. I couldn’t move. Only my face was above the grain.”

Pete’s wife Michelle heard his screams and ran to find him partially buried. She raised the alarm and neighbours quickly came to Pete’s rescue with shovels working tirelessly to reach him. While neighbours were digging, CpaRescue’s Rescue300 helicopter was tasked to respond.

“The moment they landed, I knew I had a chance.

“They were calm, professional, and knew exactly what to do.”

The Rescue300 helicopter flew Pete to Rockhampton Hospital and from there he was transferred to Brisbane for weeks of specialist care. He had multiple surgeries to repair crushed and broken bones, and severed tendons. Recovery has been long, painful and ongoing but Pete knows how close he came to not making it.

“I’ve got screws, plates and scars, but thanks to CapRescue I’m still here.”

Pete is an avid trail runner and his experience with CapRescue struck a particular chord with the organisers of the Springsure Mountain Challenge. Pete has been part of the Mountain Challenge as a participant helping raise money for CapRescue for several years.

Event organiser Mindi Durdin said Pete’s accident really hit home.

“Pete has been one of the people running to raise funds for this service, and then out of the blue, he’s the one who needed the rescue. It was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.”

Michelle hopes their experience with CapRescue encourages other rural families to be prepared.

“If you live on a property, ask yourself: if a chopper needed to land here, where would it go? Thinking about it is one thing – actually having a plan in place is another. Until it happens to you, thinking about where a helicopter would land isn’t something most people would ever consider,” she said.

“I’m just lucky to be here,” Pete reflected.

“Rescue300 turned up when I needed them most. Without that flight, I wouldn’t be here sharing my story.”

CapRescue’s annual operating costs are over $15 million annually to cover communities across their 350,000km2 area. They receive assistance from the Queensland Government, but not enough to cover everything they need.   You can donate here: www.caprescue.org.au/donate/