CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Ms LANDRY (Capricornia—Chief Nationals Whip) (16:42): I rise to recognise one of Central Queensland's great institutions, the Capricorn Helicopter Rescue Service—better known as CapRescue—as it marks 30 years of saving lives. What began in 1996 with a vision to give people across our vast region rapid access to emergency care is now a sophisticated 24-hour rescue operation.
On 18 February 1996, CapRescue flew its first mission. Today, CapRescue's helicopter, Rescue300, and its highly trained crew stand ready around the clock every day of the year, at no cost to patients. CapRescue serves more than 300,000 people across an area roughly the size of Germany, from St Lawrence to Alpha and Agnes Water and offshore from the Capricorn Coast.
Its crews respond to crashes, medical emergencies and search and rescue operations, reaching people on highways, properties and islands and at sea. In a region where distance can mean the difference between life and death, that speed and that capability are vital. Behind every mission is a human story, including that of 15-year-old Ty.
Ty crashed his motorbike on his family's property near Ogmore, suffering life-threatening head, chest and internal injuries. CapRescue flew him to Rockhampton Hospital for urgent treatment before he was transferred to the Queensland Children's Hospital. For Ty's family, the sound of the helicopter arriving meant expert care was finally within reach when every minute mattered.
Ty later said, 'Without the chopper, I would have had a very low chance of getting to help in time.' After surgery and months of rehabilitation, Ty was back on his bike within 25 weeks. His family then raised money for the service that had saved him, turning gratitude into support for the next family in need. That is CapRescue: neighbours helping neighbours and a community looking after its own.
Over three decades, it has become part of the fabric of Central Queensland. Keeping Rescue300 in the air is costly, and local businesses, community organisations, sponsors and ordinary Central Queenslanders all play their part. Every fundraiser, sponsorship and donation helps ensure that, when the next Ty needs help, Rescue300 can take to the sky.
That generosity has sustained CapRescue for three decades and reflects the strength of the communities it serves. For 30 years, CapRescue has been there for Central Queenslanders on some of their worst days. To every pilot, doctor, paramedic, aircrew, staff member, volunteer, fundraiser, sponsor and supporter thank you.
Central Queensland is incredibly proud of you, and may CapRescue continue to be there for our community for many years to come.