Rescue Club
Rescue Club is the name we affectionately give to our community of former patients.
For most people, the day they flew with us was one of the worst days of their lives. Returning can bring back difficult memories and emotions, and we understand that taking that first step isn’t always easy.
But we’ve also seen just how powerful it can be.
Many former patients tell us that reconnecting with the Service helped them make sense of their experience, celebrate how far they’ve come and find a sense of closure. It’s also incredibly meaningful for our pilots, aircrew officers and the NSW Ambulance critical care paramedics and NSW Health doctors from our critical care medical teams. They rarely have the opportunity to see what happens after a mission, so meeting patients again and seeing them living full lives is one of the greatest rewards of their work.
Each year, we host Rescue Club morning teas at our three operational bases – Belmont, Tamworth and Lismore – where former patients and their families can see the helicopter under much happier circumstances, reconnect with the crews who were there when they were needed most, and meet others who share a similar experience.
There is no membership, no commitment and no expectation. Rescue Club is simply a way to stay connected with the Service and a community that understands what you’ve been through.
By getting in touch, you can:
- Share your story, whenever you’re ready.
- Visit one of our bases with your family.
- Meet the crew and let them know how you’re doing.
- Attend Rescue Club morning teas and other Service events.
- See the helicopter up close in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
- Receive our newsletter featuring patient stories, mission updates and Service news.
- Pass on your thanks to the people who cared for you.
- Discover other ways to stay connected with the Service.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Lismore Rescue Club Morning Tea – Sunday 20 September
Tamworth Rescue Club Morning Tea – Sunday 8 November
Belmont Rescue Club Morning Tea – Sunday 15 November
We warmly encourage our Rescue Club members, their families and friends to connect, share their experiences and inspire others. Together, we can help raise awareness of the Service and the difference community support makes to people across Northern NSW.
Whether you’d like to attend an event, reconnect with our team, share your story or simply receive updates, we’d be honoured to welcome you whenever the time feels right. Whatever stage you’re at in your journey, you’ll always be part of the Rescue Club community.
I submitted the form. What happens next?
A member of our team will contact you by phone or email within 5 business days to learn about your rescue experience. We’ll ask your preferred sharing options and discuss ways you may like to be involved.
How can I prepare for this communication?
Consider whether you are ready to share your story publicly, or whether you’d prefer to keep details private for now. Either is fine. You may simply like to receive invitations to our Rescue Family events. We respect your wishes and appreciate your contact.
If I decide to share my story, who would see it?
While we greatly appreciate hearing the heart-warming stories of our patients, we are respectful of your privacy. You can choose to share your patient story publicly across our media including socials and print, or share to Service staff only including our crew. Nothing is shared without your consent.
Can I meet the crew that helped me?
We can coordinate a tour at a helicopter base closest to you for yourself, your friends and family. If you’re interested in meeting your mission’s crew, we’ll make every effort to arrange a reunion. However, it’s not always possible as our crew work shifts and may be unavailable.