Everybody has been doing it tough in the last few months but there are some services which have carried on regardless and depleted their resources in the process.
The increased pressures faced by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service both operationally and financially has been recognised by an international aviation body resulting in a financial grant towards the Services activities.
The International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT) has committed, by way of the ISTAT Foundation, a range of funding grants for non-profit organisations in the aviation industry throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service has been announced as one of a number of recipients of a grant under this initiative, alongside the likes of Air Serv International, Mission Aviation Fellowship, Angel Flight NE, Angel Flight Soars, Royal Flying Doctor Service Victoria and Amref Health Africa ONLUS.
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service CEO Richard Jones OAM said the Service is proud that ISTAT and the ISTAT Foundation chose to partner with us on crucial, aviation- connected services, with a grant of $36,000 provided to the Service in recognition of our efforts.
ISTAT a great supporter of our Rescue Helicopter Service
‘ISTAT has been a great supporter of our Service in the past, including a grant towards flight simulator training for our pilots as part of their advanced training and development. This essential training comes at a significant, but necessary cost to the Service, which is where the generosity of ISTAT was greatly appreciated.’
Mr Jones said that while fundraising activity has been significantly impacted by COVID, the Service is grateful that international organisations such as ISTAT have recognised and acknowledged the challenges we face at this time. ‘This is valuable financial support maintaining our safe and effective operations across Northern NSW.
‘We continue to fly frontline emergency response during the pandemic, ensuring that for those most in need during this time, we remain focussed on responding 24/7 with the best possible aeromedical support available to the communities we serve’.
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