In anticipation of the new addition, rescue crews have been conducting extensive training for the past number of weeks

The AgustaWetland 139 provides a “major improvement” on current flight time and fuel efficiency with the capability to deliver patients directly to Sunshine Coast and Brisbane hospitals without the need to refuel.

New RACQ CapRescue AW319 helicopter sets down in Browne Park Rockhampton

South Rockhampton residents would be forgiven for thinking the rate of medical retrievals had surged over the past few weeks, as the presence of rescue helicopters around the Rockhampton Hospital has increased dramatically.

In fact, the RACQ Capricorn Rescue crews have been involved in extensive training in anticipation of the addition of the AgustaWetland 139 to their fleet.

See its dramatic touchdown at Browne Park Friday afternoon here:

“Cabin crew have completed up to 12 hours of front and rear flight training in order to convert from the Bell 412 to the new AW139,” Senior Aircrew and Check and Train Officer Patrick Norton said.

“Two days of ground theory was conducted involving aircraft systems, winch and front left seat procedures. Each crewman underwent several hours of simulation training prior to the arrival of the aircraft.”

While the AW139 will be officially unveiled during the RACQ Cap Rescue’s 25th anniversary ball Friday night, some lucky community supporters were treated to a sneak preview at lunchtime.

It made the quick flight from its Canoona Road hangar to Browne Park at 12.50pm, circling several times before touching down.

The new machine is the result of three years of hard work.

“Queensland Health (and Babcock Australasia) has been very supportive in getting this project over the finish line,” RACQ CapRescue executive director Mark Fewtrell said.

New RACQ CapRescue AW319 helicopter sets down in Browne Park Rockhampton

“The upgrade in aircraft is essential to keep up with the increasing demand of the service, improvements to safety and a reduction in transit time, as well as other benefits that come from the advancements in technology.”

Boasting a 20 per cent increase in speed capability, the new AW139 will provide a major improvement on current flight time and fuel efficiency with the capability to deliver patients directly to Sunshine Coast and Brisbane hospitals without the need to refuel.

It has an improved range and greater speed compated to the existing Bell 412 helicopter, and is considerably larger than the current aircraft which brings many benefits for the medical crew and patients.