CEO of Wonnarua Nation Aboriginal Corporation and former Rugby League player, Laurie Perry was crushed in an underground coal mine collapse back in 1990.

During the rescue he sustained four broken ribs, a punctured lung and severe damage to his leg. Laurie was dug out by his workmates and when he was brought to the surface, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was on the scene to assist.

“I was given a quick hit of morphine and they straightened my leg, strapped me up, put me in the chopper and off I went to Newcastle… the helicopter saved my life.”