Airservices Australia's Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Service (ARFFS) has 500,000 reasons to be proud, after achieving a fundraising milestone for this year's Good Friday Appeal.
The Appeal donates much-needed funds to the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne, with ARFFS contributing more than $500,000 over a 29-year period to the charity event.
This year alone, aviation rescue fire fighters raised $48,000 towards the appeal's record-breaking tally, with Airservices chipping in the extra $25,000 needed to help ARFFS reach the golden $500,000 target.
Fundraising coordinator, ARFFS Leading Aviation Fire Fighter Lockie Saint-John, led the charity drive, which Airservices has proudly supported for 29 years.
A full year of planning by the fundraising team usually goes into each event to work out how they can top the previous year's record. But this year Lockie only had five weeks to plan - due to the pandemic wreaking havoc on events.
"We all had to dig deep, find a solution to every problem, and the end result was nothing short of spectacular," Lockie said.
"Being fire fighters, our service prides itself on having a positive impact on our community as well as the industry we serve.
"I want to thank everyone who donated their time, money or expertise. Huge thanks to our sponsors: Rex Airlines, Virgin Airlines, Avis Car Rentals, The Chocolate Box, Meat 2u and, of course, Airservices Australia!"
ARFFS is the only national fire service in the country - a rapid intervention service which engages within minutes of any incident, whether it be a first aid call, fire alarm or an aircraft in trouble.
Airservices Aerodrome Head Chief Fire Officer Rob Purcell said he was immensely proud of his team's heroic efforts.
"Airservices is honoured to support such a worthy cause as the Good Friday Appeal and we can't wait to make another significant contribution next year," Rob said.
This year, the funds were raised through sausage sizzles, hot cross buns, an appearance by the Easter Bunny and a number of kids' fundraising activities.
About Airservices
Airservices Australia is responsible for the safe and efficient management of 11 per cent of the world's airspace and the provision of aviation rescue fire fighting services at Australia's busiest airports. We connect people with their world safely - linking family and friends, generating economic activity, creating jobs and facilitating trade and tourism.
