Rescue helicopters to show their true colours and skills at the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast

The distinctive red and yellow Westpac rescue helicopters loved by Australians are sure to be scene stealers when they appear in the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast.

 The spectacular three-day event is set to take off over Surfers Paradise from 18 to 20 August 2023.

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopters Services (WLRHS) are excited to partner with the Airshow and perform demonstration rescues that showcase the enormous skill and talent of aircraft pilots and crew. These rescue simulations promise to be just as thrilling as the line-up of international aviation stars and aerobatic champions.

The partnership not only provides a unique opportunity to increase the profile of this vital lifesaving service, but it also recognises the skills of the pilots and crews and helps to raise vital funds for the service so they can continue saving lives.

Surf Life Saving Queensland’s WLRHS is one of the oldest community-based helicopter rescue services in the world. The service has been operating across South-East Queensland since 1976. With bases at Carrara on the Gold Coast and Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast, WLRHS patrols the Queensland coast from Rainbow Bay to Rainbow Beach as the community’s eye in the sky.

Ken Clark OAM, General Manager of Aviation for SLSQ Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Services says: “We are extremely proud of our partnership with Pacific Airshow Gold Coast as this event is a fantastic opportunity for the Gold Coast, Queensland and our service. 

“Visitors to the Airshow will be able to see our red and yellow helicopters on display each day with rescue demonstrations being performed. Saving lives is expensive so we are also hoping to raise some much needed funds for this valuable community service.” 

Mr Clark said the proactive service patrols beaches every weekend, during school holidays and peak periods to ensure residents and visitors remain safe while they are enjoying Queensland beaches. The service also provides assistance in emergency situations right across South-East Queensland. 

With eight pilots, five full time aircrew and 25 volunteers, the service is led by Chief Pilot Paul Gibson, who has more than 30 years’ aviation experience and training.

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service