Landing fees waived for lifesaving services

Published on 23 July 2019

Rockhampton Regional Council today waived more than $140,000 in landing fees as part of an ongoing commitment to support the lifesaving services provided by the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) and RACQ Capricorn Helicopter Rescue Service (CHRS).

Councillor Neil Fisher, Chair of Council’s Airport Committee, presented a cheque for $110,819.58 to the RFDS, and $29,906.60 to RACQ CHRS.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said that it gives Council great pleasure to provide the reimbursement.

“This is an annual reimbursement that Council has donated for more than 20 years, and we are incredibly proud to continue the tradition,” said Mayor Strelow.

“This donation ensures that more money goes to the essential services provided by the RFDS and the CHRS.”

“It is also our way of recognising the dedication of these lifesaving organisations, and showing how much our community appreciates what they do.”

Councillor Neil Fisher said that Council has donated more than $1,000,000 to the Royal Flying Doctor Service alone over the past 23 years. 

“We know that, for these organisations, extra money means more time in the air, and more lives saved,” said Cr Fisher.

“We are extremely grateful for their service, and very happy to support their work.”

RACQ Capricorn Helicopter Rescue Service Executive Director Mark Fewtrell said CHRS is very appreciative of the continued support shown to them by Rockhampton Regional Council.

“Their support highlights the value placed on the Service by the Council and recognises the positive outcomes we have on our community,” said Mr Fewtrell

“RACQ Capricorn Helicopter Rescue Service relies heavily on the support of state and local governments, major corporations, local businesses and the community to continue operations in Central Queensland. We recognise the significant contribution made by RRC and thank them.”

Carolyn Overy, Manager – Clinical and Base Operations from the RFDS Rockhampton Base said the significant donation would go a long way in helping thousands of people across Queensland.

“The RFDS helps more than 95,000 people in Queensland each year,” she said.

“Through generous donations such as this, we are able to fit out our aircraft with the lifesaving equipment we need to deliver the finest care to those people living, working and travelling in rural and remote Queensland.

“We are extremely grateful for the ongoing support of the Rockhampton Airport and the Rockhampton Regional Council.”