Rescue Crew News:

As a result of the new NASO service delivery contract staffing/crew numbers will increase progressively over the coming months. We are busy working through all of the training requirements and costings with GCH Aviation, operator of the rescue helicopter service. The new winch simulator funded by the Urquhart Trust will be up and running in the New Year which will help support crew training.

As we head into the summer months we are already planning for Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET), which will start once the outdoor Jellie Park pool is open. This is essential training for new crew, and existing crew need to complete recurrency training every 2 years.

Recently we saw the importance of crew training when the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked to an avalanche incident near Mt Cook. The crew need to be prepared and able to respond in any conditions.