Ampcontrol has renewed its major community partnership with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service Northern NSW following a lifesaving rescue involving one of its employees.
The partnership renewal, announced at an employee fundraising event in Tomago, NSW, continues a long-standing relationship between the two organisations.
Ampcontrol has supported the emergency aeromedical service for over a decade, citing the critical role it plays in ensuring the safety of employees who work across remote and regional locations.
Rod Henderson, managing director and CEO of Ampcontrol, said the renewal reflects the company’s deep appreciation for the service, especially after a recent incident brought the organisation’s importance into sharp focus.
“As a business with over 1300 people, we understand how important the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is to not only the community, but to our large number of employees, especially those whose roles require them to be in hard-to-reach areas in regional areas,” Henderson said.
The renewed commitment comes after Zac Picton, an Ampcontrol Field Service Technician, was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident in 2022 while returning from a job in Gunnedah to Newcastle.
His vehicle collided with a semi-trailer, and he required urgent aeromedical transport to John Hunter Hospital, where he spent weeks in intensive care before undergoing months of rehabilitation.
Mr Henderson said the incident highlighted the immense value of the service in critical moments.
“Taking the phone call that one of our employees had been involved in a serious motor vehicle accident whilst working shook me deeply. We are incredibly grateful to all the emergency responders, the critical care medical team and the rescue helicopter for their swift actions on this fateful day.”
Mr Picton, who has since returned to work, shared his gratitude for the role the helicopter crew played in his recovery.
“The Westpac Helicopter saved my life, and without them, I wouldn’t be here today. I’m very grateful for what they do and I’m very thankful to them. A big shoutout to Ampcontrol for continuing their support and partnership with the helicopter because it’s a big part of my heart.”
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service has been operating for nearly 50 years, providing emergency care to more than 1.5 million people across Northern NSW.
With bases in Belmont, Tamworth and Lismore, the service handles a wide range of missions including neonatal transfers, trauma care, search and rescue operations, and extractions from remote or challenging terrain.
Richard Jones, head of Community Engagement at the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, acknowledged the vital role corporate partnerships play in enabling their operations.
“Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service has been involved in some incredible stories over the years, but it wouldn’t be without businesses like Ampcontrol who partner with us,” Mr Jones said.
Reflecting on the company’s decision to renew the partnership, Mr Henderson reiterated Ampcontrol’s focus on safety and community.
“The safety and wellbeing of our people is always our top priority, and we’re deeply relieved and thankful for the positive outcome for Zac and his family. We remain committed to supporting Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service after seeing firsthand the vital support they provide the community; renewing our partnership is one way we can support their efforts.”
