Betty Reynolds honoured for rescue helicopter volunteer work
Ballina woman Betty Reynolds was last week recognised for her long-term service to Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter.
At a gathering of almost 170 Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter volunteers from all over northern NSW, Betty was presented with her 20-year service badge.
The presentation was made at the helicopter volunteers’ Christmas lunch at the Lismore Helibase. In all, 80 badges were presented, ranging from five years service to 25 years service.
Mrs Reynolds said she was devoted to the rescue helicopter because it played an important part in saving lives of people ill and injured on the Northern Rivers.
“I started volunteering for the rescue helicopter because I lived next door to the chief pilot at the time and I knew the then general manager, Perry Wells,” Mrs Reynolds said.
“I continue to volunteer because I love it and it’s important for the community to have the helicopter remain here in the northern region.”
Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter general manager Kris Beavis said the rescue helicopter service would struggle to exist if it wasn’t for the on-going support of the hundreds of volunteers from across the helicopter’s flight area.
“Volunteers like Betty Reynolds are essential to the continuation of the rescue helicopter,” Mr Beavis said.
“Their tireless efforts provide this organisation with a valuable human resource and it’s an absolute pleasure to be present these selfless volunteers with their awards today.”
Two other Ballina volunteers also received long-service awards. Vera Stalker received her 10-year badge and Sharon Cadwallader received her five-year badge.
