NSW Mining welcomes boost for Westpac Rescue Choppers

The NSW Minerals Council today welcomed the announcement by the NSW Government that the Hunter Region and New England North West Region Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service will receive a significant boost with the establishment of 24 hour full time doctor/paramedic medical crewing on base.

“NSW Mining has been a long time sponsor of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, so it’s fantastic news that the Government has committed to establishing a 24-hour doctor/paramedic  crew at Newcastle to cover the Hunter and New England North West,” NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee said today.

Last year, the NSW minerals industry extended its 30-year partnership with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, due to the vital emergency service the outfit provides for mining communities in the Hunter and New England North West.

The contribution of $270,000 over three years from the NSW Minerals Council will ensure the Service continues covering towns across the Hunter and New England North West regions where many NSW miners and their families live.

“Over 14,000 people work in coalmining in the Hunter. Unlike other mining States, our employees tend to live and work near our mines. That’s why it’s important for us to invest in this service that does so much to assist our local communities,” Mr Galilee said.

“This long-lasting partnership has stood the test of time because the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service and its dedicated staff are so valued by the whole community. We are proud to help keep the Service in our skies so that they can help people in regional NSW when they need it most.”

Contact: Lindsay Hermes I lhermes@nswmining.com.au I 0409 758 734