$10 million Rio Tinto sponsorship boosts EMQ rescue helicopter service

Mining company Rio Tinto will support community safety across Queensland with a $10 million commitment to Emergency Management Queensland's Helicopter Rescue service.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts, alongside Rio Tinto Chief Executive, Doug Ritchie, announced the substantial contribution at Archerfield Airport on 27 November, 2011.

The $10 million, 10 year sponsorship of the EMQ Helicopter Rescue (EMQHR) Service adds to the $19.7 million operating budget provided by the State Government to enhance the service's operations.

EMQHR currently operates a fleet of five helicopters in Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane.

The first year of the Rio Tinto funds are set increase the capacity of the three AW139 rescue helicopters, allowing them to fly for longer without the need to refuel.

The vital work of the EMQHR was highlighted during the 2011 floods when two Brisbane-based crews rescued 43 people from the devastating inland tsunami.

EMQ Helicopter Rescue Service Pilot Peter Row said with Rio Tinto coming on board, the service will undertake upgrades that will greatly enhance our capabilities in any future disasters as well our day to day operations.

"The generous donation made by Rio Tinto will see us develop these lifesaving skills and improve all our operational capabilities in many ways," Mr Row said.