New South Wales to be supported by new aeromedical base

A new purpose-built aeromedical helicopter facility has opened in Orange, New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Part of the NSW Government’s AU$151.2-million Helicopter Retrieval Network, the base joins other Southern NSW bases at Bankstown, Wollongong and Canberra. The base houses one AW139 aircraft, which is operational at all times.

Mark Delany, General Manager of Toll Helicopters, said “We are extraordinarily proud to operate this facility with a full and stable crew. Thank you to the people of Orange who welcomed us into their community, and to NSW Ambulance, for entrusting us with the responsibility of supporting the delivery of safe world-class aeromedical and rescue services.”

The new base features a new hangar for the aircraft, staff living and sleeping quarters and training facilities. It cost $2.5 million to construct and will be able to service communities throughout the Central West, Orange NSW Ambulance and Toll Rescue Helicopters said.

“With a team of a NSW Ambulance doctor and paramedic, or a doctor and nurse, available for every flight, the new highly sophisticated fleet of AgustaWestland 139 helicopters will ensure we are even better equipped to care for the community, now and into the future,” said Commissioner Dominic Morgan, Chief Executive of NSW Ambulance.