Still more rescues ahead for helicopter service

OPERATING at a loss and a government funding shortfall has not dented the AGL Action Rescue Helicopter chief's confidence that the service will survive.

AGL Action Rescue Helicopter chief executive David Donaldson says the government has been firm about achieving a sustainable funding solution. Picture: Cade Mooney

IT HAS been operating at a loss for years and its latest government funding increase has fallen short, but AGL Action Rescue Helicopter chief executive Dave Donaldson says he is confident the vital emergency service will survive.

Covering 100,000sq km from bases at Bundaberg and Maroochydore, the organisation performs hundreds of life-saving missions each year.

It relies on funding from the government and sponsorship to keep its choppers in the air.

"The increase in the hourly rate of pay for additional hours is welcome assistance from the government," Mr Donaldson said.

"It doesn't completely address (the future) but it's a sign the government understands the situation."

Queensland Health has been reviewing the funding situation for community-based emergency helicopter operators since 2011 and recently announced that new arrangements would come into effect on July 1.

"Our emergency helicopter service providers have voiced concerns about funding arrangements for some time," Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said. "I am keen to ensure they remain sustainable."

Mr Donaldson has pinned his hopes on this commitment.

"The government has been very firm about achieving a sustainable funding solution."

Mr Donaldson said the grounding of the rescue organisation would have a devastating impact on the community.

"While there's a lot of attention on rescues from Fraser Island etc, at least half of what we do is transfer people to major hospitals for life-saving treatment," he said.

"When the guys come to work, they are ready for everything and anything."

MISSIONS SINCE DECEMBER 1, 2012

• Inter-hospital transfers: 31
• Primary (landing at the scene): 30
• Motor vehicle accidents: 12
• Search and rescues: 2
• Total: 75