eagle 86 - yes I do remember Mackay and it was very sad. The QLD Gov recognised it's contractual short falls and have addressed them in a very responsible way. Trot back through NSW SAR/EMS history and you will find it hasn't been all peaches and cream.
Helmet Fire - any statement that preaches a reduction of safety due to a new operator is an attack on the aircrew. People in the NGO's are premoting this line on national TV and national talk back radio as often as they can. They are not afraid of having to answer to different management they are afraid of having to answer to ANYONE because they have built these empire's and do not want their kingdoms to crumble.
NGO's have done a great job in the past but the decision is in - STOP SLAGGING AUSTRALIAN AIRCREW.