How you can support us…
Rescuing someone from a moving boat is one of the most technical and challenging winch missions. That’s why, twice every year, rescue crews practise it.
At a recent training exercise, critical care paramedics were winched down to a Lyttelton Port Company pilot boat and then brought back up to the helicopter.
For the winch operator, who manages the winch from the side of the helicopter, it’s incredibly challenging. The swell of the ocean moves the boat up and down, and side to side. Boats also come with many obstacles, such as masts, aerials. and cables, which the winch operator needs to avoid.
And while carrying out the winch, the pilot needs to match the speed of the helicopter with the speed of the boat down below.
A successful boat winch requires skill, precision, and teamwork. It’s challenging work but, when an emergency strikes, it’s vital that rescue crews can respond with competence and confidence.
Training like this makes sure that happens.
A huge thank you to the Lyttelton Port Company and Coastguard for supporting us with our boat winch and water rescue training exercises.
Find out more from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter crew. See the Latest News link on our Linktree.
@lytteltonport @coastguardnz
Have you ever fancied trying pickleball, are you a bit of a pickleball expert, or anything in between?
On Sunday 23 August, 12 - 4pm you can join Brent at the Rangiora Mainpower Stadium and have a fun afternoon. The whole whānau is invite - $10 entry with 2 raffle tickets included all supporting Brent`s Back to Base challenge.
Brent was picked up by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter back in 2022 after a serious mountain bike accident and has been a dedicated supporter of the service since.
They`d especially love to see any past patients join them on the day - head along and say hi to Brent.
It`s time to get bidding - our annual Galabid silent auction is open!
Are you a luxury lover? What about a weekend away, a year`s supply of chocolate or flowers, or an iPhone 17 Pro Max?
Up for adventure? Try flying, hot air ballooning, or grab your own PLB.
Or spruce up your house with Resene, then crank up the Weber BBQ while enjoying a game of backyard cricket with Black Cap Ish Sodi!
These are just some of the more than 65 fabulous items up for grabs.
Don`t miss out. Register on Galabid using your email address and get bidding!
See the Galabid Silent Auction link on our Linktree
We`ve gone global!
Welcome Jared to Back to Base - our first international Back to Base challenger.
Jared is doing Back to Base to support the rescue helicopters back home and we love his passion!
It`s not too late to take part in Back to Base - sign up, gather your support crew, and do your bit for your rescue helicopters!
Check out Jared`s fundraising pages or sign up for Back to Base at backtobase.co.nz. Link in bio.
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