THE Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) has welcomed its newest member of the team, Singleton’s Danny Eather, as community liaison officer (CLO) for the Upper Hunter.
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While the role is not a new one for the WRHS, it is the first time during the service’s 42-year history that a CLO has been appointed and based within the Upper Hunter.
The WRHS was established in 1975 as a weekend beach patrol.
But, through community support and fundraising, it became a critical service that operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week from three bases in Belmont, Tamworth and Lismore.
Now, it delivers aeromedical search, rescue and inter-hospital transfers to care for 1.5 million people from north of the Hawkesbury River, right up to the Queensland border with the service fast approaching 2000 missions per year.
The WRHS is jointly-funded by the NSW Government, corporate partnerships and community backing, ensuring nobody ever has to pay to be assisted by the service.
And, Mr Eather’s appointment is in recognition of the loyal support provided by the Hunter Valley towards the organisation.
“The focus of this role will be to increase awareness of the Rescue Helicopter Service within the community,” he said.
“I’ll be working alongside our volunteer support groups to establish several signature events and grow our workplace- giving program across all industry groups within the entire Upper Hunter.
“Whether it’s purchasing raffle tickets or merchandise, attending one of the many events, a one off donation or weekly contribution wage deductions it all helps.
“Each year the community's own Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is on standby 24 hours a day to help save lives throughout northern NSW.
“The sound of the rescue helicopter’s beating blades is a welcome one for those in critical need, especially knowing that they will not have to pay to be assisted.”
The WRHS has partnered with the Singleton Business Chamber in order to accommodate the new Upper Hunter community liaison officer within its office located at Shop 1, 106 John Street.
For more information on the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, to join a volunteer group within the Upper Hunter or organise a workplace visit, contact Danny Eather at danny.eather@rescuehelicopter.com.au or phone 0439 072 077.
