The new Gold Coast base brings a new level of convenience and efficiency to Angel Flight passengers who can be transported from the air base to neighbouring Gold Coast University Hospital for vital medical treatment.
Angel Flight CEO, Marjorie Pagani says; “We are excited about the wonderful new partnership with Southport Flying Club and the convenience it will bring to our patients and our Gold Coast volunteer pilots and drivers.”
“Having an official Gold Coast base so close to Gold Coast University Hospital brings convenience and comfort to our passengers who fly great distances from regional and remote parts of Australia for vital medical treatment.”
“Additionally, the air strip’s proximity to Gold Coast University Hospital will strengthen our health professional deployment mission and student placement program to transport doctors and students to and from remote and regional areas where medical access is lacking.”
Positioned alongside Coombabah Wetlands, Southport Flying Club was established in 1971 as an aeroclub and since then has actively supported local Gold Coast and Queensland state initiatives.
The airstrip is currently the alternate landing grounds for Gold Coast University Hospital emergency helicopter and provides training access for Australian Federal Police, Queensland Government Rescue Helicopters and Queensland Fire and many more.
Wearing multiple hats, Southport Flying Club Treasurer Craig Hobart who recently signed as Non-Executive Director of Angel Flight and has been a volunteer pilot for 18 years, was instrumental in the new arrangement.
“Our club has a proud history of supporting the Gold Coast community who have a strong connection with the bush, and we are delighted to provide Angel Flight with a Gold Coast base to continue its vital work,” he said.
“Southport Flying Club continues to be a vibrant and active part of the Gold Coast and we are preparing to host the iconic Pacific Airshow from 18-20 August, where the best military and civilian aviators from around the world will demonstrate their aerobatic skill.”
