Glencore Renews Partnership With Westpac Rescue

WESTPAC Rescue Helicopter Service pilots will continue to receive state of the art training thanks to Glencore’s extended partnership.

Glencore’s six-figure investment has been extended until the end of 2020, ensuring pilots are properly equipped to deliver aeromedical support in the Upper Hunter.

The funding will help pilots complete 250 hours of simulator (SIM) training in Category ‘D’ simulators to assist in maintaining competency under Civil Aviation Safety Authority regulations.

Craig Strudwick, Glencore’s Community Relations Manager said the company is committed to providing all pilots access to cutting edge training.

“Glencore has supported the Service for a number of years, most recently contributing to help fund a new GeoSim – Flight Simulator at the Service’s Belmont base, which will be installed and launched later this year,” Mr. Strudwick said.

“Like our employees in the mining industry, the pilots rely on advanced operational skills and a high level of training in order to do their jobs safely,” he said.

Left to right: Glencore’s Community Relations Manager Craig Strudwick; Glencore Media and Community Relations Coordinator Elise Pfeiffer, and Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service Chief Executive Officer Richard Jones at the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Base at Broadmeadow.

Richard Jones, CEO of Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service said the ongoing training is vital for pilots and aircrews who operate the 24-7 rescue service.

“We place the highest priority on the importance of training for our crews and pilots to ensure success and sustainability of our world-class service,” said Mr. Jones.

“We are fortunate to have a company such as Glencore share that objective with us and partner us in delivering this life-saving service for the communities that we share,” he said.

In recognition of their support, Glencore’s logo will be displayed on Hunter based aircraft and on the Chief Pilot’s uniform during 2020.

“Having a service like the Westpac Rescue Helicopter is really valued in our communities and it’s something that Glencore is incredibly proud to continue to support,” said Craig Strudwick.