ECT Rescue helicopter's 150-plus flights

REGION-WIDE: This graphic illustrates just how wide the ECT rescue helicopter “spreads its wings” as it saves lives and helps people around the region. Picture supplied

THE ECT rescue helicopter had one of its busiest years on record in the 12 months to March 31 this year, with more than 150 missions flown during the year.

Eastland Community Trust continued its financial support for the vital rescue service during the year, and a brief report and graphic was presented in the trust’s annual report.

The graphic clearly demonstrates the region-wide nature of the helicopter’s operation. Most callouts (26) involved patient transfers from Te Puia Springs Hospital, followed by missions to Mahia (15), Ruatoria (9), Tokomaru Bay (6), Te Araroa, Tikitiki and Tolaga Bay (5 each).

ECT entered a five-year funding agreement with the chopper trust in September 2012 and contributes $250,000 a year to the service.

“The region would be significantly worse off without it,” the ECT report says.

Eastland Rescue Helicopter Trust needs to raise $600,000 a year to operate.

“The service benefits the community by ensuring those who work in high-risk situations on our remote farms, forests and roadways, and those who recreate in our rugged and isolated landscape, have 24/7 access to emergency medical support.

“The chopper service provides that support within the 'golden hour', thereby inceasing the chances of survival by 30 to 60 percent.”

Tickets went on sale on Monday for the helicopter trust’s annual charity dinner and auction to be staged at the Farmers Air Showgrounds Park Event Centre on September 16.

The event traditionally raises around $70,000 and this year more than 60 auction items will go under the hammer.