For many it was their first time up close to the rescue helicopter to which they give so much in time and support, finding themselves in awe of just how big and well-equipped the service's new AW139 rescue helicopter is.

The group were given a guided tour of the facility and by sheer chance got to witness the rescue team jump into action and the aircraft take off as it responded to an emergency in the Murwillumbah area.

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During their visit Support Group members were pleased to present a cheque for the $59,000 in total funds raised by the volunteers.

Helibase crew said they can’t thank the volunteers enough for the passion they have for the service, and the incredible support they raise with the help of the Tenterfield community.

The service’s regional marketing manager Zeke Huish said the visit was a chance for staff to give their deepest thanks to the volunteers who donate so much time and effort to help raise support to keep the service flying.

"It was so good to see their smiling faces as they marveled at the aircraft and the new hangar facilities," he said.

he op shop celebrated its second birthday in April, on the Oracles of the Bush weekend visitors pushing the turnover at the shop to $1100 that week alone.

Op Shop contributions combined with proceeds from the group’s participation in the Christmas Fair, the golf day on March 1 and the rugby day at Federation Park on March 24 and other activities to raise the funds.

As winter starts to really bite, the op shop has plenty of winter stock but more volunteers are always welcome.