A SPATE of incidents in the Upper Hunter over the past week has highlighted the importance of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) – and the need to keep it in the air.
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In the space of five days, the WRHS was tasked to this region no less than six occasions.
On Friday afternoon, the service assisted apprentice jockey Samantha Clenton who fell from her mount at the Scone Race Club meeting.
Less than 24 hours later, the helicopter headed to Muswellbrook after a man was bitten by a death adder.
On Sunday, the WRHS returned to the area and transported a young girl, who suffered a badly broken leg, to John Hunter Hospital.
The Gundy fatality, which tragically claimed three lives including local real estate agent Adam O’Regan, as well as a car roll-over near Scone kept crews busy on Monday.
The service then ventured to Putty Road, Howes Valley, to attend a motorcycle accident the following day.
CEO Richard Jones admitted it was a timely reminder of the WRHS’ significance.
“It’s unfortunate, but all the [recent] jobs heighten the awareness of the service,” he said.
“And, usually, we’re at our busiest on Saturdays and Sundays – there are more chance of accidents on a weekend.
“Hopefully, it all translates into extra fundraising to maintain the WRHS.
“It costs $3500 an hour (all inclusive) for us to attend a ‘mission’.
“However, no-one’s paid for usage out of their own pocket.
“So, it’s vitally important to preserve it.
“We’ll continue to provide the service – and be there when the phone rings.”
Mr Jones also commended the “volunteer network” in towns such as Muswellbrook, Singleton, Scone, Sandy Hollow, Denman and Merriwa for its ongoing support.
“We take our hats off to them,” he said.
“They’re our eyes and ears in the community.”
