The new LifeFlight Visitor Experience and Education Centre has opened its doors on the Sunshine Coast, giving the community a rare behind-the-scenes look at the organisation’s lifesaving work.
The Jocelyn Walker Centre was officially opened on June 25 by LifeFlight patron and Queensland Governor Dr Jeannette Young,vice-patron Jocelyn Walker, foundation chair and chief medical officer Dr Allan MacKillop and Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli.
Now open to the public, the centre offers visitors an immersive insight into LifeFlight’s emergency response operations. In a high-stakes rescue scenario, visitors follow a mission from the first emergency call through to patient care, with interactive simulations reflecting the real-world pressure faced by LifeFlight crews.
Younger visitors can design, colour and launch their own aircraft on an interactive projection wall and write messages to the crew. A dedicated viewing area offers a rare glimpse into LifeFlight’s hangar, where visitors can watch aircraft between missions and hear from the crews.
Guests can also learn about First Minutes Matter: LifeFlight’s free community trauma training program.
Mrs Walker, a long-standing advocate and significant philanthropic supporter of the organisation, says it is gratifying to see the centre come to life.
“This centre is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary work LifeFlight delivers for communities across the Sunshine Coast and South Burnett,” she says.
“I am proud to support a space where the community can gain a deeper understanding of LifeFlight and the vital role it plays.”
The centre includes an Acknowledgement of Country artwork created by LifeFlight patient Yarren, who is a Kamilaroi and Euahlayi First Nations boy, who lives on the Sunshine Coast.
The centre at Sunshine Coast Airport is open Monday to Friday, from 10am to 3pm, with free admission.
For guided tours or more information, email sunshinecoastvx@lifeflight.org.au
