THE Muswellbrook Golf Club will again be the scene of one of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service’s (WRHS) most popular events, the Black Coal Cup, next week.
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More than 100 players are already signed up for Tuesday’s competition, which has gone from strength-to-strength over the years.
But, in 2017, there will be a “newish” feel to it, according to WRHS regional marketing manager Chad Griffith.
“Long-term supporter and good friends of the service, Joe and Margaret Matthews, are having a year off coordinating the activity,” he said.
“Staff from the Newcastle office has undertaken the event.
“The mining community have been huge supporters of the rescue helicopter service for numerous years and it is great to see their backing continue.
“Thank you also to NSW Mining, Orica, Bengalla and many locals for their financial assistance.
“We’re aiming to raise $30,000 to ensure that no one ever has to pay when utilising the WRHS.”
Mr Griffith reinforced the service’s importance to the region.
“The WRHS is available to those in need 24-7,” he said.
“And, it operates in northern NSW from the Hawksbury River to the Queensland border, with bases supporting the community from Belmont, Tamworth and Lismore.
“Unfortunately, we’re approaching 1500 missions per year – that includes primary: attending accident sites, treating and transferring patients to a hospital; secondary: transferring patients between hospitals for specialist treatment; and search and rescue: locating missing people, rescuing and returning them to safety.
“The WRHS is also tasked to assist NSW Ambulance in response to a 000 call, Australian Maritime Safety, Australia Search & Rescue and NSW Police.
“On board every flight is a highly-skilled paramedic, doctor, pilot and rescue crew person.
“Additional specialists can be flown when needed including NETS neonatal care teams.
“Our flying team is supported by the work of a skilled engineering function, support functions and a passionate volunteer network.
“So, it’s vital to keep the service in the air – and fundraisers like the Black Coal Cup are extremely significant.”
Registrations can still be made through www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/events
All activities start from 8am with tee off from 9.30am.