BMA CQ Rescue helicopter celebrates 729 missions flown in 2024, prepares for 2025
The Greater Whitsundays can count on the BMA CQ Rescue helicopter as they wrap 2024 with a whopping 729 missions flown, many to remote locations, islands and mine sites.
Mackay
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The Mackay region’s foremost rescue helicopter has wrapped 2024 with almost 730 missions flown, including search-and-rescue operations and missions to islands and reefs.
The BMA CQ Rescue helicopter flew 729 missions in 2024 with 259 of those taking place in the Mackay region, 181 in the Isaac region and 264 taking place in Whitsunday.
These missions ranged from hospital transfers to search and rescue operations, as well as 123 instances where the helicopter’s crew acted as the primary emergency responders.
Just two weeks ago, on January 3, the helicopter was tasked to Midge Point where they brought a man who suffered significant burns to the Mackay Base Hospital.
The rescue helicopter was called when a boat holding three men started sinking near Block Reef, 90kms from Airlie Beach.
This operation was just one of 54 flights made to islands, reefs and bays across Mackay-Whitsunday.
It also transported a man injured at Kinchant Dam in a reported tubing incident and also assisted in the search for the body of a father who drowned at Kinchant Dam in March.
The BMA CQ Rescue helicopter also flew 11 missions to Bowen Basin mine sites and six missions to cattle properties over the course of the year.
“Every mission flown and every life saved is a testament to the generosity and commitment of our supporters,” a BMA CQ Rescue spokesperson said.
“Together, we can make a difference in ensuring BMA CQ Rescue remains a vital lifeline for the regions.”
Mission Facts
- 729 Missions
- 259 Mackay Region
- 181 Isaac Region
- 264 Whitsunday Region
Most visited areas
- Bowen 82 missions
- Proserpine 76 missions
- Moranbah 51 missions
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