The noise was the thing that alerted everyone on the ground the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was on its way. Then the buffeting wind as it came in to land.
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Trinity Catholic College students waited on the edges of the sport field at Southern Cross University as the helicopter landed.
Fortunately, the helicopter wasn't there to retrieve a patient.
The visit was thanks to Westpac and their school landing program which helps to give students the chance to learn more about the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and their vital role in the emergency response chain throughout Northern NSW.
"The Trinity Catholic College have been through a lot since the 2022 floods in Lismore. The chance to bring them the Westpac Rescue Helicopter at their new home inside the Southern Cross University means a lot to everyone at the Service" spokesperson for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, Zeke Huish said.
"We give our thanks not only to Westpac for helping to make the landing possible, but also to the Southern Cross University for their permission to land on their rugby field." Zeke said.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is a local charity which needs to fundraise over $3 million each year to help it to continue saving lives from its base in Lismore. During the 2023 period the Lismore operations performed over 450 missions through its partnership with NSW Ambulance and NSW Health, responding to emergencies/accidents, search and rescues as well as transferring critically ill patients between hospitals.
Chris Hartley, Westpac Bank Manager for Lismore said: "Westpac has supported the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service in Northern NSW since 1975. Our school landings program is just one of the ways we celebrate the helicopter service and share that experience with the local community".
"Today's landing is a wonderful way for us to help educate the students about how it operates and supports our community throughout the Northern Rivers and surrounding region.
"For the students to be able to hear some of the amazing insights about the Service directly from the Pilot and Aircrew Officer, along with the Medical Team onboard the aircraft from NSW Ambulance and NSW Health is a truly unique experience," Chris said.
Assistant Principal Students and Staff with the Trinity Catholic College, Mr Sean Baldwin said they felt fortunate to be involved in the schools program with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
"Many of us have someone close to us who have experienced a life saving moment thanks to the Rescue Helicopter. Trinity Lismore is proud to be building a partnership with such a fantastic organisation.
"Our College motto is 'In Word and Deed' and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter is known Australia wide as a result of its deeds," Sean said.
To find out more about the Westpac Rescue Helicopter or give your support visit www.rescuehelicopter.com.au or to find out more about Westpac's Schools Program visit www.westpac.com.au/help/community/rescue/schools/
