In 1979 a rescue helicopter service was born on the Sunshine Coast from the determination of locals who wanted to make a difference. What started as a single helicopter operation, run by volunteers from the Big Cow, is now Queensland’s leading aeromedical service.
LifeFlight’s new agreement with the State Government saw an exciting milestone for the region, with nearly $19 million allocated to a new aeromedical hub at Sunshine Coast Airport’s Aerospace Precinct that officially opened in March 2026. The facility accommodates two AW139 helicopters and a Challenger 604 air ambulance jet, featuring crew quarters, expanded engineering spaces, direct Ambulance access, and additional administration areas.
The centre also includes a Visitor Experience Centre that encourages community engagement and will be known as the LifeFlight Jocelyn Walker Visitor Experience and Education Centre in recognition of Jocelyn’s significant contributions to LifeFlight for many years. The interactive exhibit showcases our operations and aim to inspire future doctors, pilots, and aeromedical professionals. The Centre is due to open mid 2026.
To help support and guide our mission, we have a passionate and experienced team of Community Leaders in the Sunshine Coast and South Burnett region.
We’re very grateful to Roy & Nola Thompson for their incredible generosity, which allowed us to build our old Sunshine Coast Base that was a true lifeline for the region for many years.
Jocelyn Walker AM, a prominent supporter and Member of the Order of Australia, has been instrumental in advancing our mission. Her passion and commitment has been a driving force behind the development of the LifeFlight Jocelyn Walker Visitor Experience and Education Centre, ensuring that our community remains connected to and inspired by the vital work we do.
Throughout the year there are many LifeFlight and community-led events.
Stay up to date with how you can get involved in your region.
Hannah is an aerial silks performer who sustained serious injuries when the silks free-standing rig she was training on malfunctioned, causing her to fall six metres. One of our pilots was able to land our local helicopter on an incredibly narrow dam wall so that our aeromedical team could access and treat Hannah. Hannah’s airlift demonstrates the vital role our helicopters play when it comes to reaching patients when others can’t.
Check out our base at the Sunshine Coast and learn more about its capabilities.
Our fleet of helicopters and jets provide emergency medicine and protection where others can’t. We perform a unique and vital function in the healthcare system, connecting you to the best medical specialists, no matter where you are. Explore our base locations to learn more about our impact in your community.
The below calendar shows upcoming operational training events scheduled for our local aeromedical crew, as of 24/01/2025. Please be aware this is a guide and could change at any time.
