Rescue Stories
View the real life, inspiring stories of our past patients and those who fly on board.
FEATURED STORY
A fledgling Service takes off above the waves
On 7 December 1975, with a $15,000 sponsorship and a Bell 47 helicopter, the Newcastle
Missions
Redhead Rescue
For seventeen year old Beauyn Crew, a late afternoon surf with a mate at Redhead
In the News
Dr Rob’s Story
‘It’s hard to imagine a person that hasn’t been touched by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.'
Missions
Winch rescue for rider
A weekend ride with mates took a horrific turn for Derek when he collided with a utility on a blind corner.
Missions
Aimee’s Resilience
A freak accident at gymnastics training left Aimee paralysed and in need of critical medical care.
Missions
Every minute matters
A gas leak and fiery explosion at his workplace left Scott with severe burns and in need of rescue.
Missions
The littlest battler
Baby Christopher spent four of his first five months in hospital due to a rare medical condition.
Missions
Near fatal horse kick
It was a regular day at work for Martin until a foal he was working with delivered a near fatal kick to his head.
Missions
Kirsty’s story
A tragic head on motor vehicle left Kirsty widowed and fighting for her life.
Missions
Skydive goes wrong
Casey's birthday gift... a tandem skydive from 14,000 ft nearly ended in tragedy.
Missions
Kiarna’s remote rescue
A motorbike accident on her family's rural property left Kiarna in need of critical medical care.
Missions
One family, two flights
The Rescue Helicopter comes to the aid of one family for two separate incidents
Missions
Two flights for Maggie
Sixteen year old Maggie nearly lost her life to Influenza complications.
Missions
Rosalynd’s heroes
Rosalynd admired the Rescue Helicopters from below, until an aneurysm triggered a life saving mission
Missions
Lost at Sea
Two spearfishermen are lost at sea, great white sharks circling below. The Westpac Rescue Helicopter is their only hope.
Missions
Kristyn’s flight for life
Kristyn sustained life threatening injuries in a horrific motorway accident that almost cost her life.
Missions
Surf side rescue
Surfing at his favourite break, Aymon hit a sandbar and pinched his spinal cord. One wrong move could have proved deadly.
Missions
Alfie’s early arrival
Born prematurely, baby Alfie was separated from his twin and transported in the helicopter to specialist medical care.
Missions
Sound of angel’s wings
The Rescue Helicopter came to Paul's aid after a serious motorcycle accident on a deserted road.
Missions
Trapped Underground
A coal mine collapse left Laurie trapped underground with life threatening injuries.
Missions
Millie’s Story
Eight year old Millie nearly lost her life to Influenza B.
The rapid response of the Rescue Helicopter connected Millie with the lifesaving treatment she needed.