Rotary Club of Cromwell members enjoyed an evening with Otago Helicopter Trust representative Viv Seaton and Intensive Care Flight paramedic Ross Kirkpatrick last Monday evening.
Having travelled from Dunedin to Cromwell, the pair spoke to the members about the valuable support Rotary Club of Cromwell is providing through their annual Queens Birthday Weekend Book Sale.
“Each year we are consistently looking for $1 million to help our communities in times of need, the government does fund the bulk of our service, but there is still a large amount required,” Viv explained.
Five helicopters service the Southern region from the Waitaki south and demand is increasing.
In 2017 there were 890 callouts, while in 2020 that number increased to 1540.
“Our 2020 figures include two bases combined, both Lakes District and Otago, however, there is increasing demand for our services and community support is crucial,” Ross said.
Helicopters are equipped with the very best medical and night vision equipment allowing paramedics to get where they are needed.
The Otago Helicopter Trust relies on support from the community and as many know, when you need help, the sound of a helicopter approaching is incredible.
Cromwell Rotary’s Queen’s Birthday Book Sale will be held from Friday, June 4 – 6 in the Cromwell Bowling Club on Alpha Street.
Proceeds from the annual event will go toward supporting the Otago Helicopter Trust.
“A very special thank you from me, and on behalf of those I attend too, they also thank you,” Ross added.
Rotary Club of Cromwell president Pam Broadhead was pleased the Rotary group is able to help and looks forward to another highly anticipated and successful book sale.
