The Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) 4, operated by Ambulance Victoria, has received a significant boost thanks to a generous donation of $2,000 from the Country Women’s Association of Victoria Inc. (CWA) South Western Group. This contribution was presented during the CWA South Western Group’s half-yearly conference held in Terang last month, highlighting the strong community support for this essential lifesaving service.
Based in Warrnambool, HEMS 4 is one of five specialized crews within Air Ambulance Victoria (AAV). The highly trained flight crew, which includes Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) flight paramedics, is equipped to perform medical retrievals from some of the most remote locations in the state, whether by land or sea.
MICA flight paramedics undergo extensive training to prepare for the physical and mental challenges of their duties. They continually refine their clinical and technical skills necessary for delivering critical medical interventions, conducting extractions, and ensuring timely hospital transports.
Andy McKenzie, Senior Team Manager of HEMS 4, expressed gratitude for the CWA’s ongoing support. “The CWA South Western Group have been long-time supporters of our HEMS service and have provided countless donations over the years,” he stated. “This generous contribution has been made to specifically support our AAV ALS and MICA flight paramedics, pilots, and aircrew to manage the significant physical and mental demands of their roles, while they continue to provide the best care for the Victorian community.”
HEMS 4 plays a vital role in the region, retrieving and treating approximately 6,000 patients each year. The donation from the CWA will help ensure that the team can maintain the highest level of pre-hospital emergency medical care, particularly in regional and remote areas.
McKenzie emphasized the importance of community backing: “We’re fortunate to have amazing and unwavering community support, including from the CWA South Western Group, who go above and beyond to back the lifesaving work we do.”
The ongoing support from organizations like the CWA is crucial to the operational capabilities of HEMS 4, ensuring that they can continue providing essential services to those in need.
For those interested in supporting Ambulance Victoria’s vital services, donations can be made directly to the organization.
