The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service was established back in 1975 by the Surf life Saving movement and now undertakes nearly 2000 life saving missions each year.

Involved in many of those missions is Redhead local, Graham Nickisson, and today Id like today to pay tribute to his thirty eight years as a rescue helicopter crew member.

During this time, Graham has accumulated an amazing 7100 flying hours and controlled 2639 winching operations in his role as the pilots left-hand man!

His experience and knowledge is without peer in the service, and he is considered the longest serving aircrew officer in Australia.

Peers have praised Grahams efforts, stating Nicko has always gone above and beyond and this has made him one of the most loved characters in our service. He has given remarkable service to our region.

Thankfully, Graham will not be lost to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, moving from the air to the land in a promotional role guiding students through school visits.

Graham, thank you for your ongoing service.