The Queensland Government has announced it will provide funding for a CareFlight Rescue helicopter to be based 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at the Toowoomba Airport.

In today’s state budget, the Bligh Government has committed to $1.64 million per year to assist CareFlight in upgrading its part-time service to a 24/7 operation.

CareFlight Group Queensland CEO, Ashley van de Velde said the newly announced government funding is a major win for the corporate and community supporters who have been a driving force behind the service for many years.

“It’s their hard earned dollars that have enabled CareFlight South West to deliver this service over the past three years,” he said.

The part-time service has previously operated on weekends, school holidays and public holidays, however with the new injection of government funding, plans are being made for the service to go 24/7 as quickly as possible.

“CareFlight feels a great sense of pride that we are able to deliver this vital service to protect more families affected by accident and illness in the South West. We are committed to providing the best care possible to the community, and by expanding our South West operation we will be able to do that,” Mr van de Velde said.

Over the last three years a group of prominent South West businesses known as the “Darling Downs Dozen” has worked tirelessly with community, contributing time and funds to ensure the continued operation of the vital Careflight Rescue service for the communities of the South West.

“The Darling Downs Dozen will be delighted to see their hopes of a 24/7 service become a reality.

“Having an aircraft available in Toowoomba 24/7 will mean quicker response times and greater efficiency in reaching patients in the South West. This enhanced delivery of service will complement the services provided by the Queensland Ambulance Service and the local hospitals,” Mr van de Velde said.

Toowoomba North MP Kerry Shine was also instrumental in getting the Careflight service extended to a 24/7 operation.

“As local member I know how important this service is for the people of Toowoomba and the south west region generally.

“I’m extremely pleased the Treasurer and Emergency Services Minister have listened to the community,” Mr Shine said.

From the Clive Berghofer CareFlight Centre in Toowoomba, CareFlight South West’s flight region extends up to 350 kilometres into the west.

The funding announced in today’s budget will be provided in addition to the Government’s existing financial contribution to CareFlight’s 24/7 service based on the Gold Coast. Both services are supported by the Queensland Ambulance Service who provides paramedics to work on board all CareFlight helicopters.

For more information, please call Brooke Chapman 0423 563 862.