Austbrokers Canberra are proud to announce our sponsorship of a Bell 412 helicopter—a vital aerial firefighting service helping to improve the emergency response available to the region. This unique opportunity evolved through our valued clients at Canberra Helicopters. This aircraft will join the fleet at Canberra Helicopters to further enhance their capability to rapidly respond to fires and emergencies in the Canberra Region. Their fleet also services the region with heaving lifting, general charter and tourism flights.

The helicopter, known as ‘Charlie’, was purchased in 1981 by the National Safety Council of Australia (NSC). No stranger to the Canberra community, Charlie previously served as the founding aircraft for the iconic SnowyHydro Southcare Rescue Service. Over the last year the aircraft ceased those operations due to a newly tendered emergency service contract.

Rolleston brothers, Les and Glen, who are the owners and operators of Canberra Helicopters, witnessed Charlie’s firefighting skills firsthand during the 2003 Canberra bushfires disaster and pledged to return the aircraft to the bush capital to resume service.

Far from an 80’s prodigy, Canberra Helicopters ordered a full refurbishment and upgrade of the aircraft bringing Charlie into the 21st century with performance improvements, interior fitout and the addition of a 1400 litre firefighting tank.

According to Les Rolleston, the project’s purpose is all about giving back to the community. “Charlie is a true icon in the Canberra community and I believe this aircraft is important to this cities past and future.”

Greg Johnston, Managing Director of Austbrokers Canberra is honoured to be able to support this local initiative: “Our insurance brokerage aims to safeguard our community and this sponsorship is yet another way in which we can protect our bush capital.”
Insurance is typically about protecting homes and businesses from loss after disasters happen. By being able to sponsor Charlie, we have the chance to help in times of disaster, too.

Austbrokers Canberra is proud to serve the Canberra community, by providing tailored insurance programs with specialist knowledge in business, construction and transport insurance.