LIGHTS have come on at night at a Loddon recreation reserve as country town football grounds continue to be safe landing spots  for Victoria’s air ambulances.
The latest Loddon landing at Bridgewater saw the air ambulance transport an injured motorcycle rider to hospital.
Ambulance Victoria said support of Loddon communities in providing safe access to vital helicopter landing sites was valued by the service.
Air operations manager Brad Martin said: “Our helicopters are frequently called to access some of the most remote areas across the state. 
“While airports are often our preferred landing sites, there are times when every second counts, and we aim to land as close to the patient as safely possible — even if that means landing on a local footy oval, community reserve, or roadside out landings,” Mr Martin said.
“Our pilots carefully assess potential landing sites from the air, ensuring the area is safe and when possible assessed and/or controlled by local emergency services before proceeding.
“In rural and regional communities, local sports fields and community reserves often become vital landing sites that significantly contribute to emergency response efforts. 
“These sites play a crucial role in saving lives, and we are immensely grateful to the communities who support us in making these landings possible.”
Ambulance Victoria says that while airports or aerodromes are often preferred, helicopters may land on sports ovals, reserves or other open areas when appropriate to do so.
“All helicopter landing sites are assessed for suitability prior to landing by the pilot in command, and when possible, coordinated with Victoria Police, CFA, SES, and/or Ambulance Victoria to ensure the area is secured and safe,” it says.
Where time allows, local councils or reserve committees may assist—for example, by switching on lighting or unlocking gates to allow access for emergency vehicles.”
Ambulance Victoria’s fleet includes six Augusta Westland AW139 helicopters and four King Air fixed-wing aircraft, providing a co-ordinated state-wide, 24/7 aeromedical response. One of the choppers is based in Bendigo.
The Wedderburn teenager airlifted from Bridgewater this month’s is now recovering from injuries.