What’s happening?
CapRescue has installed solar panels at its Rockhampton headquarters, marking a shift to renewable energy that will cut power costs and support its emergency rescue work. The upgrade came through support from Squadron Energy’s Clarke Creek Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund.
CapRescue Operations Manager Kirsty Wooler said the installation was part of the organisation’s commitment to reducing operating costs and becoming more environmentally responsible. She explained that the project lets CapRescue create clean power on site, easing pressure on the electricity grid.
“Transitioning to renewable energy allows us to generate clean power onsite, reducing our reliance on the grid,” she said. “These savings help ensure that more of our funding can remain focused directly on lifesaving operations across Central Queensland.”
Why it matters?
The solar upgrade provides ongoing savings for a not-for-profit service that responds to emergency and aeromedical missions across a vast region. Lower running costs mean more funding can support frontline rescue work.
Ms Wooler said Squadron Energy played a key part in making the project possible by reducing the financial burden. She noted the ongoing partnership was incredibly important for the service.
“Squadron’s support reduced the financial burden of the installation and ensured we could move forward with a project that delivers long term environmental and operational benefits,” she said.
“As both a corporate sponsor and a contributor to this solar project, Squadron directly supports our ability to provide a world class rescue service across more than 350,000 square kilometres.”
Local Impact
Rockhampton and the wider Capricorn region will benefit from a stronger air rescue service able to commit more funding to fast response times, operational capacity and lifesaving missions. The solar installation also links local rescue work with broader renewable energy projects in the region.
By the numbers
- CapRescue completed nearly 600 calls for help in 2024, showing high demand for emergency response.
- The service covers more than 350,000 square kilometres across Central Queensland, giving it one of the largest service areas in the country.
- Squadron Energy has supported CapRescue since early 2024, allowing the organisation to strengthen operations through sponsorship and project support.
Zoom In
Squadron Energy’s Clarke Creek Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund backed the solar upgrade, deepening the existing partnership between the two organisations. Clarke Creek Community Relations Advisor Patrice Willoughby said the installation was another positive step.
“CapRescue plays a vital role and lifeline for rural and remote communities, and we are proud to support their mission of saving lives in the regions through air rescue,” she said. “It’s great to see CapRescue making the move to renewables with the installation of solar panels on their base, and Squadron Energy is thrilled to be a part of that transition.”
Zoom Out
The move highlights how regional emergency services are turning to renewable energy to reduce costs and build long term resilience. For a service that depends on community support and sponsorships, any savings make a direct difference to frontline capability.
What to look for next?
CapRescue will continue working with Squadron Energy as part of their long term partnership, with both groups focused on supporting rescue capacity and community safety across Central Queensland.
