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?
Any beaches within the South West Cape Region.
Favourite part of the job?
Knowing that during each day things can go from being a standard day to something more challenging where you have to think outside the square and work together in the aircraft to achieve an outcome. This usually occurs during Search & Rescue tasks.
What inspired you to join the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service?
Previous experience in helicopter operations.
What motivates you to work for the service and help the community?
With limited aviation services here in the South West you know that whatever you do day to day is assisting in keeping the community safe.
What advice would you give to those looking to become a crew member?
For anyone looking to join up my advice is that it can be a fun and thrilling to work onboard a helicopter but you must always remind yourself that you have to be on the ball at all times as aviation can be a challenging career and relaxed complacency can lead to incidents or accidents.
Do you have any aspirations in aviation?
I’ve been operating out of helicopters for 31 years now…I’m aspired.
What do you think is the most important safety message you could share with the WA community as a crew member?
One of the things I was told during my younger years was to “never turn your back against the ocean” as mother nature can simply creep up on you, always face it head on. Know your capabilities when playing in the ocean and assess the conditions before entering the water.