A rescue helicopter service’s new Sunshine Coast base has been launched, boosting aeromedical capability in the region.
The opening of LifeFlight’s new HQ on Saturday coincided with the group’s gala, which raised funds for emergency trauma training workshops.
The $18.5 million hangar was funded by the state government and is the most significant infrastructure project delivered in LifeFlight’s 46-year history in the region.
LifeFlight traces its roots back to 1979 when the Sunshine Coast Helicopter Rescue Service (SCHRS) was founded by the late Des Scanlan and others.
The new base is almost three times bigger than the former facility, at 1500sqm, and can accommodate two AW139 helicopters and one Challenger 604 jet.
It will help make LifeFlight’s 24-hour response more efficient across the Sunshine Coast, Wide Bay-Burnett and South Burnett regions.
Other base features include crew accommodation for six, a patient transfer room, and new training rooms and simulators to assist with doctor training and seminars held on site.
The opening was attended by Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, Sunshine Coast base pioneers including surf life-saving legend Hayden Kenny and long-standing supporters, and came ahead of the start of aeromedical operations on March 31.
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LifeFlight chair Jim Elder said it was gratifying to have so many LifeFlight supporters in the new hangar.
“This larger facility will bolster our commitment to the communities we serve,” he said.
“The additional space will provide extra manoeuvrability, meaning the crew will be able to get maintenance work done faster.
“This means increased aircraft availability for lifesaving missions on the Sunshine Coast, South Burnett and beyond.”
Mr Elder said LifeFlight Sunshine Coast had been called to help a record number of people in 2025.
“The Sunshine Coast-based helicopter helped more than 600 people in the past year, which was up 18 per cent from 2024,” he said.
“This new base, delivered in partnership with the Queensland Government and community support, comes as demand on our services soars.
“It secures our future on the Sunshine Coast helping those in need, no matter where they are, for years to come.”
Mr Elder said the milestone event was also a chance to reflect on how far LifeFlight has progressed in almost five decades.
“It’s a long way from our origins in 1979 and we have our pioneers to thank for their vision for a rescue helicopter service in the region,” he said.
“They started it all and it’s a legacy we are proud to continue.”
The hangar will also house the LifeFlight Jocelyn Walker Visitor Experience and Education Centre set to open later this year. It will provide an immersive experience for locals and tourists on LifeFlight’s history and its work in the Sunshine Coast region.
Meanwhile, the gala raised a record-breaking $525,000 for community emergency trauma training.
Attendees were treated to a night of glamour, delicious delicacies and unique auction items at the event, presented by PDN Traffic Management and AfterBuild Clean Co.
They also watched an emotional video about Paralympian and LifeFlight patient Alexa Leary’s life-changing accident, and her journey to recovery before she earned her three Paralympic medals in 2024.
LifeFlight Sunshine Coast and South Burnett Regional Advisory Committee chair Tarlia Carpenter said funds would benefit the community.
“This annual fundraiser showcases the community’s generosity and commitment to supporting LifeFlight and the lifesaving work our crews do in the region,” she said.
“First Minutes Matter is our way of giving back to the communities who show us so much support. It’s free and teaches attendees what to do in a medical emergency before first responders, like LifeFlight, arrive to help.”
LifeFlight vice patron Jocelyn Walker, who has made significant philanthropic contributions to the organisation, said it was a milestone for the region.
“It’s wonderful to be surrounded by so many people who are passionate about supporting LifeFlight and the work our crews do for our community,” she said.
“It is particularly special to share this evening with our pioneers who are all well known to me having lived on the Sunshine Coast for almost 45 years.
“This new aeromedical base will bring in a new era for LifeFlight and leave a lasting legacy.”
LifeFlight thanked the event partners who helped make the gala a success.
