The New Era of CQ Rescue

July 1, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New Era for CQ Rescue

The New Era of CQ Rescue is upon us and we invite you to be the first to hear about our exciting times ahead.

July 1 marks a momentous occasion for CQ Rescue, as we commence operations with our own CASA Air Operator Certificate. After years of preparation, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority has granted CQ Rescue the right to operate our own flight operations, without the need to out-source this to another company.

CEO Tim Healee says that it really is a testament to his team that the approval was granted. "This milestone marks a significant step forward for CQ Rescue as we now have full control over our operations, ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency for the communities we serve. Over the past two years, our dedicated team has worked tirelessly to transform CQ Rescue, culminating in achieving our own AOC (Air Operator Certificate) and securing our future longevity”.

In preparation of CQ Rescue’s new direction, Mr Healee and his team have searched the country sourcing only the very best to join the operations crew. “We have scoured the country to assemble the most experienced and dedicated aviation leadership team, ensuring that CQ Rescue is well-equipped to move forward as an independent operator and continue delivering exceptional service to our community. Our vision is to be Australia’s leading Aeromedical and Search and Rescue operator recognised for our tenacious commitment to excellence”, he said.

We will soon welcome 2 brand new AW139 aircraft that will fly 30% further and 30% faster. They will have state-of-the-art technology which will mean we can save more lives. At a cost of $52 million, CQ Rescue has committed to the region for years to come.

You’ll also notice our new colours that will fly with us into the future. Our iconic yellow colour is evolving to a vibrant orange!

Orange symbolises energy, enthusiasm, courage and compassion – values that resonate deeply with our mission at CQ Rescue. Additionally, the vibrant orange with red hues mirrors the rich colours of our region's rugged landscape and embodies the resilience and strength of our rural communities. Just as the orange sunrises bring light to the day, the blue that has been synonymous with CQ Rescue for decades remains a part of our solid foundation and is synonymous with our dedication to saving lives. It further represents our brilliant skies and spectacular kaleidoscope of ocean colours.

We also farewell RACQ who has been by our side for 23 years. As we both embrace our new directions, CQ Rescue remains ever indebted to RACQ for their faith in us and for their dedication to standing with us as we answered the call to be there for our community in their darkest hours.

Change is inevitable and while goodbyes are met with mixed emotions, Mr Healee is positive that the future is bright for CQ Rescue. He said, “The conclusion of our naming rights sponsorship with RACQ marks the end of an era, and the exciting start to a new one. For over two decades, their generous backing has empowered us to enhance our services and save countless lives. We extend our heartfelt thanks for their enduring partnership and support."

We are also pleased to announce in light of our increased operational costs, the State government and QLD Health have agreed to increase their support of CQ Rescue, to ensure the continuity of the essential service we provide to the region.

As we embark on this exciting new adventure, we thank our existing long-term partners who have stood steadfast by our side for decades and who continue to do so. We also welcome our new supporters to the CQ Rescue family, all of whom will be revealed at the unveiling of our new helicopter.

Stay tuned for more updates and surprises as we embrace our new look, our future and continue our unwavering commitment to saving lives and making a difference.

Thank you for sharing our passion for saving lives and allowing us to continue to be a beacon of light in times of need.


Please credit any released photos and video footage to CQ Rescue.
Please note:
The full title of the rescue service is CQ Rescue.

For further information please contact:
CQ Rescue Media on 0417 578 182 or tegan.philpott@cqrescue.org.au