Rescue chopper service turns 25, and it’s time to celebrate
Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter is extending an invitation to the northern region community to help celebrate the service’s 25th anniversary at a ‘Simply Silver Gala Ball’ at Lismore City Hall on Saturday November 3.
“Since 1982 the rescue helicopter service has completed over 5200 life-saving missions. But we simply wouldn’t have been able to do it without the ongoing and very passionate support of the community,” said Westpac Life Saver’s General Manager Perry Wells.
Mr Wells said that the ball would provide the perfect opportunity for the pilots, crew, staff and people who have been carried by the helicopter to say a big thanks to the community for their support.
“It will also allow the community to pay tribute to this vital service, which is dedicated to saving the lives of others,” said Mr Wells.
Tickets to the ball are $110 each (includes 3-course meal and beer/wine), and there are a limited number of VIP tickets available at $175 each. VIP tickets allow the ticket holder entry to the exclusive VIP Cocktail Party (from 6-7pm), where guests will meet celebrity MC, television and radio personality Amanda Keller.
Mr Wells said: “Guests attending this black tie (with a ‘touch of silver’) gala event will experience an unforgettable night of feasting and dancing, and will indulge in scrumptious local Northern Rivers cuisine prepared by award-winning local chef David Foster from Paupiettes and Annetony’s Catering. Brisbane band Boogie Knights will set the mood for what promises to be an amazing evening.”
The ball is a major fundraiser for the rescue helicopter service. All funds raised will go towards helping the service obtain the right equipment, training and infrastructure to do what they best. Local businesses are asked to support the event via donation of raffle and auction prizes (call Lisa Murphy on 6627 4444).
“Our service relies on the community for half of our annual operating budget of $4.5 million, so events like this ball are vital to our existence. Saving lives is a very expensive business (an average mission costs $5000) but well and truly worth it when you consider we airlift on average 5-6 people per week,” Mr Wells said.
Tickets are available now at Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter, 60 Brunswick Street, Lismore.
