Bloody typical. Where the hell is our useless regulator CASA.
What do you thinks this mobs Operations Manual has to say about HEMS operations.
Not a thing!!!!
How do you think they manage fatigue on a 24/7 roster with only one crew?
What training has the crew undertaken?
A fitness program for the crew looks like it might be a good place to start.
If the good people of Warrnambool feel they need a rescue helicopter, why don’t they advertise for staff set up an AOC and Certificate of approval and buy a helicopter. At least that way they could see where their money has gone. Shelling out public money only to have the helicopter disappear at the next fire season opportunity makes no sense.
There are good people out there. There is quality staff of a high calibre in the middle east right now busting for an opportunity to come home to work like this. All you have to do is advertise.
Helicopters cost.
Staff costs.
If you wish to have any control over these costs you need your own. Otherwise it will cost you a little more.
A well managed community based helicopter in a place like Warrnambool could almost be self supporting.
Hire a manager. He/she then,
Sets up a charity.
Gain the co-operation of the Ambulance service.
Writes an operations manual.
Fund raise within the community.
Purchase a helicopter
Hire staff.
A good manager would have you operational within 18 months.
Look! I know it is not that simple. That's why you hire a manager first. It is his job to sort out the details. The Warrnambool City council employs the manager directly giving them ultimate control.
Edited.
Heliport