IT was quick thinking for pilot Stephen McCartney when he made a flight that potentially saved the life of friend Greg Jones, who suffered a series of micro-strokes in June 2012.
It just so happens that the friend in need was the Flinders Shire Council Mayor and Mr McCartney, the Council Chief Executive Officer.
Now, despite his busy work schedule, Mr McCartney, who has had a private pilot’s licence since 1992, has signed up to contribute his flying skills to Angel Flight so that he can help others in need.
Angel Flight is a charity that coordinates non-emergency flights to help country people trying to deal with the triple trouble of bad health, poor finances and daunting distance.
All flights are free and may involve patients travelling to medical facilities anywhere in Australia.
While he is yet to do a mission Mr McCartney is looking forward to his first flight.
“I heard about Angel Flight mainly through past Local Government Managers Association (LGMA) president Nick Clarke,” he said.
“In August, pilots Nick Clarke and Mike Levy are raising awareness and funds for Angel Flight by visiting 44 towns in 42 council areas over 17 days in a little Foxbat aircraft
“We are helping support and promote this event.”
Meanwhile Cr Jones, who was flown to Townsville Hospital after symptoms of dizziness and blurry vision affected him during his work as an electrician, has returned to his mayoral duties and is almost back to full health.
He is grateful he now has the chance to thank his work colleague.
