LIFEFLIGHT officially opened its new Sunshine Coast hangar base with a gala dinner on Saturday, March 14, with the new base further strengthening the aeromedical capabilities in the region.

The launch, which coincided with the LifeFlight Sunshine Coast gala, raises funds for the emergency trauma training ‘First Minutes Matter’ workshops.

The $18.5 million hangar was funded by the Queensland Government and is the most significant infrastructure project delivered in LifeFlight’s 46-year history on the Sunshine Coast.

LifeFlight traces its roots back to 1979 when the Sunshine Coast Helicopter Rescue Service (SCHRS) was founded by the late Des Scanlan and others.

The new base is nearly three times bigger than the former facility at 1500sqm and can accommodate two AW139 helicopters and one Challenger 604 jet.

The opening was attended by Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, Sunshine Coast-based pioneers, including surf life-saving legend Hayden Kenny OAM and long-standing supporters, and came ahead of the start of aeromedical operations on March 31.

LifeFlight chair Hon. Jim Elder said it was gratifying to have so many LifeFlight supporters in the newly constructed hangar.

“This larger facility will bolster our commitment to the communities we serve.

“This means increased aircraft availability for lifesaving missions on the Sunshine Coast, South Burnett and beyond.”

Record people helped  
Mr Elder said LifeFlight Sunshine Coast had been called to help a record number of people in 2025.

“The Sunshine Coast-based helicopter helped more than 600 people in the past year, which was up 18 per cent from 2024,” he said.

“This new base, delivered in partnership with the Queensland Government and community support, comes as demand for our services soars.

“It secures our future on the Sunshine Coast, helping those in need, no matter where they are, for years to come.”

Mr Elder said the milestone event was also a chance to reflect on how far LifeFlight has progressed in almost five decades.

“It’s a long way from our origins in 1979 , and we have our pioneers to thank for their vision for a rescue helicopter service in the region,” he said.

“They started it all, and it’s a legacy we are proud to continue.”

Gala dinner 
The gala raised a record-breaking $525,000 for community emergency trauma training.
Attendees were treated to a night of glamour, delicious food and unique auction items at the event presented by PDN Traffic Management and AfterBuild Clean Co.

LifeFlight Sunshine Coast and South Burnett Regional Advisory Committee chair Tarlia Carpenter said funds raised would benefit the community.

“First Minutes Matter is our way of giving back to the communities that show us so much support. It’s free and teaches attendees what to do in a medical emergency before first responders, like LifeFlight, arrive to help,”  Ms Carpenter said.

LifeFlight vice patron Jocelyn Walker AM, who has made significant philanthropic contributions to the organisation, said it was a major milestone for the region.

“It’s wonderful to be surrounded by so many people who are passionate about supporting LifeFlight and the work our crews do for our community,” she said.

“It is particularly special to share this evening with our pioneers who are all well known to me, having lived on the Sunshine Coast for almost 45 years.

“This new aeromedical base will bring in a new era for LifeFlight and leave a lasting legacy.”