RACQ NQ Rescue Helicopter chief executive officer Alex Dorr said services would improve and grow with the decision to join forces. 

As of July 1, a bigger and better aircraft will operate in the region, as the service becomes known as RACQ CareFlight Queensland. 

“I’m very happy, the key for us has always been sustainability, for us to merge with CareFlight is great for us,” Mr Dorr said. 

“The community can rest assured that services will not only remain but it will grow.

“As of the first of July we will see a new aircraft arrive."

“Our fundraising is just as important as ever as everything that is raised in Mount Isa stays here and goes towards our base.’’ The move will see fly-in-fly-out rescue staff reduced, meaning half of the crew live in Mount Isa, Mr Dorr said.

Mr Dorr said his role would change slightly, but the RACQ NQ Rescue Helicopter board members will remain so the chopper can maintain its local care. 

CareFlight Group chairman Rob Borbidge said the merger would only be as strong as the support given to the community. “This merger means the community of North Queensland can be assured critical care air medical services will continue to be provided by a rotary wing aircraft based in Mount Isa,” he said. 

“We have had very positive discussions with the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Fire Service, Queensland Police Service and Queensland Health and it is our aim that we can all work together in the most effective manner to provide the best possible outcomes for our patients.’’

RACQ executive general manager advocacy Paul Turner said the company had been supporters of CareFlight for 21 years and the merger would help provide assistance to stranded and injured motorists.  

“It means RACQ’s community rescue helicopter service for the area will have much better capability and reach into remote and rough terrain, helping them save Queensland lives,” Mr Turner said.

Mount Isa Mayor Tony McGrady said the North West was behind the merger. 

“The people of the North West are all behind Alex and his team, they understand the need and appreciate the dedication that goes into keeping this service in the air,’’ he said.

“I look forward to seeing the many benefits of this partnership and the advancement of emergency care services across the region.”