Mayor’s Charity Ball raises record amount for rescue chopper

“And that is exactly why my annual Mayor’s Charity Ball will continue to support this vital service,” said Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Willcox.

Kristy was on hand today when Mayor Willcox presented a cheque for a record $87,797 from the 2018 Mayor’s Charity Ball, held at Abell Point Marina, on July 28.

“For over 22 years RACQ CQ Rescue has been on call for our residents in their hour of need,” Mayor Willcox said.

“These funds, on behalf of our community, will help ensure they continue to provide their life-saving service to the Whitsunday region.

“No matter whether you are rich or poor, live in the outback or one of the islands, the RACQ CQ Rescue service is always there to save the day for our residents 24/7, 365 days a year,” he said.

“From Collinsville to Bowen, Proserpine, Airlie Beach and everywhere in between, we are lucky to boast such a supportive Whitsunday community.”

RACQ CQ Rescue CEO Ian Rowan said the proceeds of the Whitsunday Mayor’s Ball would help deliver life-saving aeromedical and emergency helicopter rescue services to people across the region.

“We are incredibly grateful to be the recipients of this vital support from Whitsunday Regional Council which ensures we can have a world-class aeromedical helicopter service on our doorstep and available anywhere, anytime throughout Central Queensland,” Mr Rowan said.

“Given Proserpine and the Whitsunday Islands were among our top three frequented destinations last year for our rescue helicopter, it’s reassuring to know Council appreciates the value of supporting our service.

“Their generous commitment ensures we can continue to provide our vital aeromedical service to residents, workers and tourists in a time of crisis,” he said.

Mr Rowan said it cost more than $8.65 million annually to keep the world-class helicopter rescue service in the sky and a large proportion of this money came from community donations and sponsorship.