The Westpac Rescue Helicopter has been a godsend for thousands of people from all walks of life who have been seriously injured in rural and remote areas across Northern NSW.
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When a 12-year-old rider from Armidale Horse and Pony Club fell from her horse and was knocked unconscious at a competition in Bundarra in late 2017, the chopper was called upon to airlift the patient to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle for further treatment.
The youngster made a full recovery thanks to the speedy service the Westpac Helicopter provided and since the incident, the Armidale club rallied to find a way to throw their support behind the organisation.
After their recent interclub competition, the Armidale club donated $5 from every entry on the day to the chopper. From 91 entrants on the day, plus an extra donation from the club, a total of $500 was raised.
Westpac Rescue Helicopter’s New England North West volunteers coordinator Kim Newling was on hand when the club held their Jamboree practice day to receive the donation.
She was grateful for the support and said every little bit of time or money donated to the service keeps the helicopter flying.
“We feel very humbled to receive this generous donation from the Armidale Horse and Pony Club,” she said.
“It’s the continued support from groups such as the AHPC that help to ensure that no one ever has to pay to be assisted by the service.”
Four helicopters service 1.5 million people across the northern part of the state. To donate visit www.rescuehelicopter.com.au