Air Crew
As South West Air Crew, I am responsible for working with the pilot and my fellow Air Crew or Rescue Crew to conduct scheduled surveillance patrols looking for and taking action in response to different types of coastal hazards. I am responsible for safely dispatching rescue equipment or a Rescue Crew from the helicopter in response to an incident. I am also involved in ensuring we are “rescue ready” at all times in the event of tasking.
Favourite WA beach?
Honeycombs
Favourite part of the job?
Getting tasked to search and rescue incidents in the Southwest, where conditions can be unpredictable and the environment is ever changing.
What inspired you to join the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service?
Working on a rescue helicopter has been one of my goals since I started lifeguarding back in the UK at 17, finally achieved it at 26.
What motivates you to work for the service and help the community?
Lifesaving has always been a passion of mine, I started surf life saving at the age of 7 and began lifeguarding for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution at 17. This passion has now followed me over to WA.
What advice would you give to those looking to become a crew member?
Put your time in on the beach, get some life guarding experience behind you and hone in on your surf life saving skills and you’ll be there.
Do you have any aspirations in aviation?
To assist with as many SAR’s as possible.
What do you think is the most important safety message you could share with the WA community as a crew member?
Familiarise yourself with the WA coastline, know your forecasts and always tell someone where you’re going.