Air Crew
Tony Wood
What made you join the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service?
It is the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a massive impact on somebody’s life. Had it not been for this service many families would be without loved ones.
What has been the toughest mission you have been on?
The toughest are always the fatal ones. The worst was comforting a mother at 2.00am on the side of the road, after being forced off the road by a truck. With her 12 year old son screaming in pain with a broken arm and shoulder, her husband moaning in agony with a broken back and her 6 year old son lying 12 ft away and asking if her little boy as okay – he in fact had a blanket draped over him, deceased.
What is your favourite rescue story?
Dee Why. 2005. Winching 3 people at once from horrendous seas and incoming tide near rocks.
With such a great view from the sky, what has been the most unusual thing that you have seen when on a surveillance flight?
12 hammerhead sharks up to 3.5metres long swimming 20ft from surfers who were totally oblivious to their presence.
If you could offer the beach going public one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t drink then go and play in the sea. You will inevitably end up in a whole lot of hurt.
Trevor Cracknell
What made you join the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service?
I was working as a lifeguard for Randwick City Council and then applied for a full time position in 1986.
What has been your most rewarding experience being involved in the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service?
The Service work ethic and the crews I have worked with over the years.
What is your favourite rescue story?
Rescuing a diver who was lost and ended up being the brother of one of the crew members.
Have you ever been contacted by someone you’ve rescued after you got them back to safety? If so, what did they have to say?
Numerous times people have come in to say thanks once they have recovered from their injuries. It can be very emotional and the appreciation that some people show is great.
If you could offer the beach going public one piece of advice, what would it be?
Swim between the red and yellow flags and join a Surf Life Saving Club.
