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28 May 2007

Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Media Release

Westpac extends investment in rescue services for Northern NSW

Westpac today committed to continue its support of rescue services in northern NSW, with the announcement of a new three-year partnership with the Northern Region Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service.

The new agreement guarantees Westpac's support of the NSW northern region's vital aero-medical rescue service until at least 2010.

General Manager of the Northern Region Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service, Perry Wells, said Westpac's support makes the service possible.

"We're thrilled that Westpac has extended its partnership with rescue services in the northern region," he said.

"Without the support of our corporate sponsors and donations from the local community, our service wouldn't be possible."

Westpac's partnership with the Northern Region Westpac Life Saver Helicopter spans more than 15 years. In that time the service has flown on more than 5200 missions, serving communities from the Queensland border in the north at Tweed Heads, south to Nambucca Heads and west to Glen lnnes and Tenterfield – an area covering more than 60,000 square kilometres.

The service assists at the scene of accidents, transports patients between hospitals and is often involved in local search and rescue missions over the ocean or in remote bushland. During bushfires, the helicopters also assist with water-bombing and rapid deployment of fire fighters into difficult terrain.

Westpac's Head of Community Involvement, Samantha Brown, said Westpac works with the rescue helicopter services to raise awareness and funds to help them continue serving the community.

"Westpac has been a long-term supporter of rescue services across Australia, including in northern NSW, and we're committed to continuing our support of this vital community service," she said.

The service relies on community support to operate, and is currently seeking volunteers to assist at various fundraising events in their 25th anniversary year. For further information, call 02 6627 4444.

Donations to the Northern Region Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service can be made at any Westpac branch.