As a cattle man, Wayne Ware is built tough and been hardened by the challenges of life on the land. But he admits the horrific injuries he sustained in a serious accident on his Pioneer Valley property earlier this year challenged his views on conserving resources and getting back in the saddle.

If the saying ‘the greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members’, then Clermont is one amazing place.

“You read about it, watch YouTube and videos, but it’s one of those things you think will never happen to you.”

It started as a morning of sightseeing in a picturesque area of North Queensland — and ended with a chopper rescue and a race against the tide.

“RACQ CQ Rescue was there for us on the worst day of our lives. It is an absolutely essential service. We are proof that having the chopper available  can really mean the difference between life and death.” Sally, Melbourne.

As a former flight paramedic in South Africa and Abu Dhabi, Brad Poultney knows how important lifesaving aeromedical care is in a time of dire need. He also knows how terrifying it can be to be a patient.

Life is still a daily struggle for a Mackay couple who are haunted by the sound of helicopter blades after a horrific motor vehicle accident on the Bruce Highway a decade ago.

Cody Smith knows there’s only eight seconds to glory. But his recovery from serious injury is more long term as is his return to the sport he is passionate about – bull riding.

Laying in pain in the fetal position in dense bushes as the rain pelted down, Chris Newlyn clearly remembers the RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter approaching him in the dark on a remote island in the Whitsundays.

The last couple of years could be described as a parent’s worst nightmare for the Dickinson family.

Dexter Reynolds was only six years old when he had his first flight in a helicopter – it was one of the most terrifying experiences of his mother Katie’s life.

A heart attack at work in October last year has taught Alan Dukes an important lesson - to never take things for granted. Not your health or a rescue helicopter service that can potentially save your life.

Working in the mining sector obviously comes with risks. Workplace health and safety has improved immensely but the risk is still considered high compared to other jobs.

At the precipice of becoming a teenager, it can be a challenging time for any 12-year-old girl as they learn to handle new emotions but Hannah Papps displays determination, resilience and strength well beyond her young years.

It was meant to be an enjoyable afternoon walk to the top of one of Mackay’s most famous landmarks on September 2 last year.

Even after his death following a tragic accident last year, Jake Gibbons is still helping others.

When Jofe Graham-Jenkins hadn’t arrived home by 7.40pm on September 6 last year, his wife Lorna knew something was wrong.

American Levi Verwoest was rescued from open water about 50km offshore by RACQ CQ Rescue after spending a cold and dark night sitting atop his overturned boat.

Justine Barwick had enjoyed a beautiful day at stunning Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays and was taking a refreshing swim in the cool waters of Cid Harbour when her life changed forever.