Four people on board a Westpac Rescue Helicopter that crash landed in the state’s north-west in 2007, have been rewarded for their courage.
The Tamworth based Bell 407 experienced catastrophic engine failure as it was flying to a serious road crash near Warialda.
The chopper’s pilot, Dave Davies manoeuvred the aircraft away from power lines and fences, before the aircraft landed heavily in a field.
Also on board were crewman Jamie Yeo, Dr Chris Trethewey and paramedic Stuart Harris. All managed to escape the aircraft, which was destroyed.
All four will today receive the NSW Government’s Ambulance Commissioner’s Award for their actions when the chopper crashed.
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service Chairman said the awards were testament to the crew’s bravery.
“While Dave and Jamie stayed with the aircraft until Service personnel arrived at the crash site, Dr Chris Trethewey and Paramedic Stuart Harris flagged-down a passing motorist who took them to Warialda to attend to the fatal accident involving a number of the town’s young residents,’ he said.
‘This was a remarkable job by the pilot to protect the lives of all personnel. We commend the work of all four people, the emergency services that assisted and the community who worked hard post the crash to help the Service replace the damaged aircraft,” Mr Jones said.
