The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) in Western Australia has made a public call for expressions of interest for the exclusive naming rights sponsorship of the state’s emergency rescue helicopters.

The sponsorship opportunity arises as the service prepares to upgrade its fleet at the end of the year.

The new helicopters will boast enhanced range and cutting-edge aviation rescue technology.

Western Australia’s rescue helicopters call for sponsors

Funded by the State Government and managed by DFES, the emergency rescue helicopters offer a critical service, responding to a variety of emergencies across the state, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

The service includes two helicopters based in Perth and Bunbury, with a third available for additional support, notably during extended periods such as the Carnarvon and Kimberley floods.

Upgraded fleet to enhance rescue operations

The State Government has allocated $26.7 million towards the asset upgrade, which will extend the operational reach of the service over an area of more than 334,000 square kilometres, providing coverage for over 91% of the state’s population.

Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM highlighted the critical nature of the service: “DFES is proud to manage WA’s only dedicated rescue helicopter service, responding to calls for help around the clock.

He added: “The Emergency Rescue Helicopter Service is capable of being airborne in less than 15 minutes and provides vital search and rescue capability and critical aeromedical services.”

He also underscored the impact of the service, “Over the last 20 years the flight crew have assisted in saving thousands of lives and helped return loved one’s home to family and friends.”

Further emphasising the significance of the sponsorship, Commissioner Klemm stated, “This is an outstanding opportunity for a community-focused organisation to join us in putting others first and working together to keep Western Australians safe.”

Interested organisations have been invited to apply since Tuesday, 17 October 2023.

More information about this opportunity is available on the government’s tender website, tenders.wa.gov.au.

For additional details about the DFES and its services, visit their official website through this link: Applications open for lifesaving sponsorship.

IFSJ Comment

The announcement from the DFES heralds a new chapter for emergency services in Western Australia, aligning the interests of public safety with corporate partnership.

The upgrade to next-generation rescue helicopters will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of these lifesaving services, ensuring faster response times and greater reach across the vast expanse of the region.

The sponsorship opportunity allows for a synergy between the dedication of rescue services and the social responsibility ethos of private entities.

It is a testament to the ongoing commitment to public safety and corporate citizenship in Western Australia.