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NSW helicopter paramedics and doctors have access to a new training facility, which the state government says is “designed for complex rescues”.
The Rescue Access Procedural Training Reinforcement (RAPTR) room is now open at Bankstown Airport’s Aeromedical Crewing Excellence (ACE) Training Centre, and includes a winch training simulator, the Mixed Augmented Virtual Reality (MAV) trainer, and a vertical access training wall.
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“The winch training simulator features a realistic rescue helicopter cabin equipped with a personnel winch that is mounted eight metres above the ground, enabling a wide range training scenarios to be conducted,” the NSW government said in a press release.
“The MAV trainer is a virtual simulator for crew to practise complex mission scenarios, created in a collaborative research partnership with the University of NSW. It incorporates mixed‑reality technology to create fully immersive training experiences.
“The multi-level climbing-abseiling wall, which has an overhang for vertical access training, can also be configured to undertake restricted space access training.”
According to NSW Ambulance interim chief executive Clare Beech, the complexity of the missions aeromedical crews undertake demands training that is “as close to real life as possible”.
“Facilities like the RAPTR room give our teams the chance to rehearse high‑risk procedures in a safe, controlled environment,” she said.
“Our helicopter paramedics and medical teams are among the best in the world, and that’s because they train relentlessly. These new capabilities ensure they can continue to meet the growing needs of communities across NSW.
“Whether it’s a remote rescue, a coastal winch, or a time‑critical medical emergency, our crews are equipped with the skills, experience, and technology to deliver expert clinical care before a patient reaches the hospital.”
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park hailed the “extraordinary” work being conducted at the facility.
“Our aeromedical teams train in some of the most advanced rescue environments in the country, ensuring they’re ready to respond when people need them,” he said.
“Training like this means our helicopter paramedics, doctors and aircrew can continue delivering lifesaving care in the toughest and most unpredictable conditions across NSW.
“Every enhancement to this facility strengthens our emergency response capability and gives communities confidence that our highly skilled clinicians are prepared for any scenario, anywhere in the state.”
NSW has more than 70 critical care paramedics operating from bases in Bankstown, Newcastle, Tamworth, Lismore, Wollongong, Orange, and Sydney.
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