Rhys is the ‘star’ of this year’s helicopter Christmas Appeal

Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter’s 2009 Christmas Appeal has begun, and the ‘star’ of the campaign is three-year-old Rhys Ryan.

Rhys, from Kyogle, suffered serious burns while on a camping trip with his family at Palmers Island during the last school holidays.

He was airlifted by Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for emergency treatment.

Luckily, Rhys has been left with minimal scarring due to quick medical attention and a flight to Brisbane that took just 22 minutes with the rescue helicopter.

Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter general manager Kris Beavis said Christmas was the busiest time of the year for the rescue helicopter.

He said that during the holiday season, the helicopter could be called to attend up to six life-saving missions a day, at an average cost of $5000 per rescue.

“Every year over the Christmas period, we are called to attend an increased number of motor vehicle accidents, camping accidents and beach rescues as people travel to enjoy their holiday season,” he said.

“Our costs rise substantially at this time because our aircraft need to be serviced more regularly as our flying hours increase.”

Keeping the helicopter in the air costs $5.5 million a year and more than half of that money has to be raised from community donations and fundraising events.

Rhys Ryan’s mother, Lenore Ryan, said she was extremely grateful to the helicopter crew for getting Rhys to Brisbane.

“Hopefully, you won’t need their support this Christmas, or ever, but rest assured if you do, they’ll be there,” she said.

“I urge you to help them help our community this Christmas by donating now. They’re here 24/7 and their service is free of charge.”

To make a donation, call 6627 4444 or go to www.helirescue.com.au, or go to any Westpac branch.

PICTURE: Rhys Ryan and his mum Lenore Ryan.

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1. Busy morning for Westpac Rescue Helicopter
2. Give generously to the helicopter appeal
3. Cyclists prepare for rescue helicopter fundraiser
4. It’s Helicopter Awareness Week
5. Helicopter always on call — even during the Thanksgiving Service

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Related posts:

1. Busy morning for Westpac Rescue Helicopter
2. Give generously to the helicopter appeal
3. Cyclists prepare for rescue helicopter fundraiser
4. It’s Helicopter Awareness Week
5. Helicopter always on call — even during the Thanksgiving Service