'Angels in the air': Grateful families pay tribute to CareFlight on 10-year anniversary

CareFlight’s emergency response team has been saving lives for 10 years – and today, some of those who have first-hand experience in how vital that service is arrived at headquarters to pay tribute.

Many of the crowd who came to celebrate CareFlight’s exceptional work have themselves been victims in need earlier in their lives.

“We owe them everything,” Rebecca Xiberras said.

Adrian Kumic agreed.

“It’s something you hope you never need, but you’re glad they’re out there if you ever do,” he said.

CareFlight is dedicated to rapid response, with a team as good as anybody in the world.

The crew can get the helicopter in the air and on its way to an emergency in just 180 seconds.

Pilot Ian Smart said he had to take off without an idea as to his destination, only being informed once in the air.

“I think they’re amazing, and I think they saved my life,” Samantha Gordon said.

“I think they’re angels in the air.”

Samantha survived her cerebral haemorrhage thanks to CareFlight’s rapid response team

Health Minister Jillian Skinner said CareFlight was one of the “jewels in the crown” of the state’s health services.

“You can tell by the families who are here today what a difference (CareFlight) meant,” she said.