Meet the extraordinary crew, a dedicated team of professionals committed to saving lives. Supported by our Board of Trustees, they are ready to serve.

Mask group@2x

Rick Knight

Crew Chief

Rick Knight has been Crew Chief for close to 20 years.He works closely with the COO of GCH Aviation, Declan Smiddy, the Clinical Director, Dr Katherine Townend, and Operations Manager, Christoph Heathcote.

“We have a diverse and amazing set of skills on the crew with Critical Care Paramedics (CCPs), experienced rescue pilots and fully trained crew.

We could not do this without your support.”

“Last year I attended an ultra-sound course, simulation-based education courses and hope to attend some aero-medical conferences in the coming months. All of these will help us improve patient care outcomes.”
– Tatsu, Critical Care Paramedic
“I recall a 220-foot winch (close to the limit of the winch) – a lady had fallen off the track on Quail Island. It was a very tricky job but with a good outcome. On another day we attended a scene with a motor vehicle accident and successfully winched out two patients.”
– Brent, Pilot

Essential Specialist Equipment

Each year we need to replace aeromedical equipment and there are new, exciting developments like improved night vision goggles and ultrasound probes.  We need your help to stay up to date, improve patient outcomes, and save lives.

45k
Corepuls3 defibrilator monitor
17.5keach
Night vision goggles
10.5k
Stryker stretcher
7.5keach
Immersion suit
5keach
Crew lifejacket and helmets

News and stories from our staff, patients, families and investors that make the difference…

Brent on the hillside with Scott and Matt

Our Stories

Find out how your donations continue to support 
Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue.
presenting a cheque

Ways to donate

Discover the ways you can help make a difference.