Any given day, or night, you're likely to see the Westpac Rescue Helicopter fly overhead in Lismore.
It's a bittersweet thing.
The helicopter is loud. And it feels like it's about to land on your roof when it flies in to land at Lismore Base Hospital's helipad.
While it's really sad to think they have someone onboard who is sick or injured, the sound of the chopper brings comfort in knowing the service is there when you need it.
The crew from the helicopter service dropped in to visit Trinity Catholic College students on Friday. It makes a dramatic entrance, drawing people out to watch as the crew make it look easy as they land on the SCU field.
The school landing program is aimed at giving students the chance to learn more about the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and their vital role in the emergency response chain throughout Northern NSW.
When the students and staff were asked if they knew anyone who had been transported by the chopper, a staggering number of people put their hands up, indicating the far-reaching impact it has on all of our lives.
It's such a valuable service. One that we've been lucky to have in the region for decades.
Last year, it celebrated 40 years of operation, and has flown more than 10,000 missions in that time.
Helicopter rescue began in the region in 1982 when Surf Life Saving Australia commenced its fifth helicopter operation at Ballina SLSC with a Hillier UH-12E.
Today, air rescue in the region is supported by four AW139 helicopters operating from three bases at Newcastle, Tamworth and Lismore. They service 1.5 million people from the Hawkesbury River, north to the Queensland border.
The students got the chance to take a closeup look at the helicopter and talk to the crew about what it's like to work for the service.
The helicopter is an impressive machine, and the students heard that each helicopter is worth $20 million, and it costs $50 million a year to keep the fleet of helicopters in the air.
That's why, despite sponsorship from the likes of Westpac, the service needs to fundraise each year.
The students made a valuable contribution during the visit and there are many ways you can support the service.
You can make a contribution from your pay, or join in the Coastal Charity Walk in May. It's just been announced Married At First Sight's Lucinda Light is supporting the walk this year.
Go to rescuehelicopter.com.au to find out hoe you can help.
Till next week, Cathy Adams - editor
