Westpac helicopter - 25 years in this region

A 25-Year Legacy of Serving the New England and North West

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is proud to celebrate 25 years of continuous aeromedical operations across the New England North West, with the milestone anniversary of its Tamworth Base to be officially marked on Monday 25 August 2025.

Since its launch in 2000, the Tamworth Base has grown into a vital regional emergency response hub, supporting the communities of the New England North West region, delivering a world-class aeromedical and search and rescue capability.

“Twenty-five years of lifesaving and life-changing critical care is a wonderful milestone and testament to the strength and generosity of the New England North West community, whose support has been vital from the very beginning,” said Mr Steven Underwood, Chief Executive Officer of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

The Service officially launched in August 2000 with a single-engine Bell 407 helicopter, operated from hangar space provided by BAE Systems in Tamworth and from the outset, the Service has been strongly supported by local volunteers and regional business from towns across the region. Notably, the efforts of early champions like local MP Tony Windsor, the late Cliff Marsh, and long-time community liaison Barry Walton were instrumental in establishing the Service.

“Throughout droughts, bushfires, floods and tough economic times, the people of this region have been unwavering in their support of the Service and for that we are humbled and deeply grateful,” Mr Underwood said.

In 2007, after the original Bell 407 aircraft was retired, the Service transitioned to twin-engine BK117 helicopters, with further fleet upgrades in 2012.

A major boost for the region occurred in 2017 as part of a statewide integration of services under an initial 10-year contract with NSW Ambulance. Local firm Best Practice Constructions led the build of a modern base to support the arrival of the highly capable AW139 emergency medical services helicopter.

Today, the Tamworth Base is an integral part of the broader health network and, in partnership with NSW Health and NSW Ambulance, we collectively provide critical care to the patient at the point of need across the region.

“This milestone is a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come - but also allows us the opportunity to look to what we can achieve into the future,” Mr Underwood said. “We are committed to the delivery of an aeromedical and search and rescue capability that the community can be proud of and of delivering that lifesaving and life-changing critical care in times of need.” Mr Underwood concluded.