Article originally published in the Musewellbrook Chronicle – 8 June 2017
Bengalla employees and its contract companies have been digging deep for Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) over the past month.
Having placed an order for a new bucket for the Bengalla dragline, the Maintenance Department came up with the idea of painting the bucket to raise funds for the WRHS.
After consultation with Westpac Rescue and CQMS Razer, a design was finalized and the fundraising began.
“There is nothing that captures your attention more than a dragline bucket coming through town painted bright yellow and red with a big set of teeth,” Bengalla CEO Cam Halfpenny said.
“The WRHS plays a vital role in our community.
“And, for our employees, and while we all hope that we do not need to call on the service, it is reassuring to know that such a professional and dedicated service is there supporting the community.”
Bengalla superintendent and fundraising organizer Christopher Shannen also supported Mr Halfpenny’s sentiments.
“When news went out that Bengalla was organizing a fundraiser, many of our suppliers wanted to get involved by donating prizes to be included in a raffle and 100 club,” he said.
“I would like to acknowledge and thank CQMS Razer, Pit Patrol, Teterin Supply, Baker and Farrow, MMS Engineering, Muswellbrook Steel Supplies, BOC, Muswellbrook Electrical, BJs Workwear, Pirtek, Allweld Services, Joy Global, Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia, WesTrac, Comprint Solutions, Lear and Smith, K&R Hydraulics and Penske Corporation for the support.
“I would also like to thank all the Bengalla workers and wider community who bought tickets to raise the funds.”
The fundraiser was a great success with a cheque being handed over to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service for $8970.
“Bengalla and their employees, contractors, and suppliers are to be commended for their commitment in supporting the ‘communities own’ aeromedical service,” WRHS regional marketing manager Chad Griffith said.
“All funds raised will ensure no one ever has to pay when in their time of need.
“The dragline bucket is a first for the Rescue Helicopter and one that I am sure has created a huge amount of interest within the community.
“Thank you to Bengalla for the vision to support our lifesaving service.
“The mining industry has a long history of donating and without the ongoing support we could not provide the level of service to our communities.
“Thank you for your belief and dedication.”
