What’s Happening?
CapRescue marked 30 years of service at its anniversary charity ball, presented by QMAG on Friday night.
Former patients Fiona and Bevan Baker shared how CapRescue crews helped save their lives.
The gathering also recognised the partners, volunteers and donors who have supported the service for three decades.
Why It Matters
The fundraiser supports Rescue300’s aeromedical work and crews responding when patients need urgent care.
The Bakers’ account showed guests what that support means for patients, families and their futures.
Local Impact
Guests saw Rescue300 beside the new Aurizon Stadium before the aircraft returned to active duty.
After the event, it transported a patient from Thangool to Rockhampton Hospital.
By The Numbers
- A total of 300 guests attended CapRescue’s 30th anniversary event.
- Fundraising activities generated $60,000 for Rescue300’s lifesaving work.
- Just 20 minutes after the event ended, Rescue300 was transporting a patient to Rockhampton Hospital.
Zoom In
Fiona and Bevan described the care they received and their continuing gratitude towards the crew.
“We wouldn’t be here today without CapRescue,” they told guests.
Acting CEO Kirsty Wooler said their experience brought the evening’s purpose into clear focus.
“Hearing Fiona and Bevan speak reminded everyone that behind every mission is a person, a family and a future that can be changed in an instant,” Ms Wooler said. “It’s easy to talk about helicopters, equipment and fundraising targets, but at the heart of CapRescue are the people whose lives are changed because help arrived when they needed it most.”
Zoom Out
Ms Wooler said community support had kept CapRescue operating throughout its first 30 years.
“For three decades, our community has stood behind CapRescue. From our corporate partners and volunteers to the many individuals who support our fundraising events each year, this service simply couldn’t exist without them.”
Guests began with pre-dinner drinks and photos beside Rescue300, with the new Aurizon Stadium as the backdrop.
They later enjoyed a three-course dinner, live entertainment, auctions and other fundraising activities.
“To everyone who attended, sponsored, volunteered, donated prizes, purchased Balloons or bid in our auctions, thank you. It’s inspiring to see our community continuing to invest in the future of CapRescue,” Ms Wooler said.
CapRescue thanked presenting partner QMAG, event and table sponsors, volunteers and every guest.
It also recognised auction and Balloon Pop prize donors for helping make the anniversary ball a success.
What To Look For Next?
The money raised will support Rescue300 as crews continue responding to aeromedical missions across the region.
The aircraft’s quick return to duty showed how rapidly celebrations can give way to urgent patient care.
“It’s a timely reminder that while we celebrated our first 30 years on Friday night, our crews are always focused on the next mission,” Ms Wooler said.
