Rotary representatives from around the region attended the launch of the new Westpac rescue helicopter at Tamworth Airport on the 24th of July, representing Rotary's continued sponsorship of this service to the New England North West area.

Westpac Helicopter Rescue Service Chairman Cliff Marsh said the launch was a special an emotional occasion for the regional community, and thanked all those involved in the support of services for their continued support to the service and the region.

The new helicopter already had the chance to prove itself as it was preparing for service in Tamworth, when wild storms hit the Newcastle area. Chief pilot of the aircraft Ian McFadden piloted a set of spetacular missions to winch crew to safety from the Pasha Bulker as it lay beached on Nobby's Beach during extremely bad weather conditions .

The new Eurocopter/Kawasaki BK-117 B2 helicopter now based in Tamowrth replaces the previous Bell 407 helicopter which was lost in February this year after suffering an engine failure near Warialda.

The BK-117 features twin engines for improved operational capability and reliability, as well as a larger cabin area for both aircrew and cabin crew, with full 240v power supply for continuous operation of medical equipment throughout flights.

The helicopter also includes an improved navigation system which protects the aircraft and its crew with a better level of system redundancy, as well as allowing the aircraft to operate under instrument only flight conditions, providing a 24/7 service capability to the region.

More information about the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is available at http://www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/wrhs/index.asp