November 25, 2013
Emergency helicopters – which had to stop landing in Cherbourg because of safety concerns earlier this year – could soon be servicing the town again.
Flights into the town had to be stopped in February this year because of children near the helipad posing a safety and a security risk.
Patients requiring emergency airlifts were transported by road to Murgon Hospital where they were met by aircrews.
However, a helicopter returned to Cherbourg today as part of “Get Ready Cherbourg Day”.
The RACQ CareFlight Rescue helicopter landed on the Cherbourg helipad.
Cherbourg residents had the opportunity to speak with the helicopter crew and get an up-close look at the chopper while it was safely on the ground.
The crew highlighted the importance of the air-medical services and discuss safety risks associated with helipads.
CareFlight Group Queensland CEO Ashley van de Velde said the organisation was thrilled to be part of the event and to work closely with a community that is determined to make a difference.
“We congratulate the Cherbourg Aboriginal Council on their proactive efforts in helping us make an already high risk job a whole lot safer,” Mr van de Velde said.
“RACQ CareFlight Rescue plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between rural communities like Cherbourg and providing emergency medical care.
“But of equal importance is ensuring the safety of our crews, patients, hospital staff and bystanders.
“Risks exist for everyone around aircraft and helipads but there are small things we can all do to significantly reduce these. They’re as simple as adhering to warning signs and remaining outside boundary fences.”
It is hoped the event will allow emergency helicopter providers like CareFlight to recommence landing at the Cherbourg Hospital’s helipad.
The Cherbourg Aboriginal Council will make a donation to CareFlight as thanks for the service’s involvement.
Get Ready Cherbourg Day is an initiative of the Cherbourg Aboriginal Council aimed at educating the community on keeping safe in an emergency.
[UPDATED]
- Related article: Cherbourg Getting Ready Again
