Rescue chopper service threatened

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 9, Issue 390, 11 June 1991, Page 1

Rescue chopper service threatened

A decision by Palmerston North rescue service operators to use a Taupo based helicopter company will affect the viability of the Waimarino Rescue Trust's operation.

The Palmerston North emergency services coordinating committee has recommended to the Manawatu Wanganui Area Health Board that they accept a proposal to base a Squirrel helicopter at Palmerston, operated by the Phillips Search and Rescue Trust, Taupo. The helicopter would be used as an air ambulance in the whole region, including the Waimarino. Waimarino Rescue Trust representative Terry Tapp said the decision has disappointed his group, beeause the committee had promised to consult fur-

ther with them before making a decision. He also asked who would be paying for the service. The Wanganui Aero Works helicopter used by the Waimarino trust woqld be much cheaper to operate in this area because it was much smaller than the Squirrel and the hour's flying time from Palmerston would add costs as well as delay rescue operations, said Mr Tapp. He said when there was more than one patient at an accident the Squirrel was useful, but that the Waimarino trust accepted that. "Accidents don't wait I5WBSB wrnwrnimmmwmmmm

for good weather," said Mr Tapp. "What if we needed the helicopter today (Monday) - would they get through from Palmerston North?" A Palmerston-based pilot is not going to have the local knowledge of the special terrain in the Waimarino also, said Mr Tapp. He said while the Wanganui Aero Works pilot had initially had difficulties due to his inexperience, he had now clocked up a large number of hours in the area so knew it well. "He's a good safe pilot who knows the area well now," said Mr Tapp. Committee chairman Chief Inspector Morresey said the Phillips helicopter would mainly be used as an air ambulance, and that the WanTurnpage2

Rescue

From page 1 ganui Aero Works heli-. copter could still be used for some rescue operations. A further concern in Wanganui and the Waimarino is that with the rescue co-ordination coming from Palmerston North the use of the Phillips helicopter would be favoured, despite Wanganui Aero Work's good past track record.