CQ Rescue has released its 2026 Community Report, revealing 2025 as the busiest year in the service’s history.
In the past 12 months alone, the rescue chopper responded to 778 missions, flew more than 339,000 kilometres, and provided urgent aeromedical care for 834 patients in need.
It included 29 search and rescues, 455 inter-hospital transfers, 135 primary response missions, 8 farming incidents, 3 boating accidents, and 18 dirt bike crashes.
CQ Rescues most frequented destinations included Bowen, Dysart, Moranbah, Proserpine, Townsville, Clermont, Collinsville, Hamilton Island, and Nebo
The most common injuries: cardiac (99), abdominal (63), cranial (62), respiratory (53), spinal injuries (25), and snake envenomation (20).
CEO Tim Healee said the figures reflect both the growing demand across the region and the strength of community support behind the service.
“Behind every one of those 778 missions is a person facing one of the hardest days of their life. A family waiting. A community counting on help to arrive in time,” Mr Healee said.
“2025 was our busiest year yet, but it was also a year of extraordinary progress. With two state-of-the-art AW139 helicopters and our own Air Operator Certificate, BMA CQ Rescue has become one of the most capable and independent aeromedical providers in regional Australia.”
General Manager Lisa Martin said the report showcases not just operational statistics, but the human stories behind them.
“This report is about more than numbers. It is about lives saved, families reunited, and communities supported,” Ms Martin said.
“When floodwaters isolated North Queensland communities last year, our crew stepped forward without hesitation. When our community needs help, we will always be there to deliver lifesaving support when every second counts.”
Operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, BMA CQ Rescue services the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac regions, with the capacity to support neighbouring regions when required.
