CHC Australia - Spotlight On: Bart Bretherton, Senior Air Crew Officer and Search and Rescue Equipment Specialist at Tindal

Today we have the third in our Australia ‘Spotlight On’ series – where we catch-up with engineers, pilots, air/rescue crew and other colleagues across CHC Helicopter to discuss their careers and the role CHC plays in supporting the Department of Defence in Australia.

Introducing Bart Bretherton, Senior Air Crew Officer and Search and Rescue Equipment Specialist, Tindal.

Q: Bart, could you tell us about how your team support Australia’s Department of Defence?

A: My base is located at RAAF Base Tindal, just outside the town of Katherine, about 300 kilometres south of Darwin, Australia. We specialise in supporting the Royal Australian Air Force with Search and Rescue operations. These tend to be around supporting F35 aircraft and other ejection seat aircraft. We may be used, for example, if a pilot has to eject from their aircraft and be rescued from the land or in the sea. Occasionally, we may also engage in civilian rescues, particularly in remote or challenging environments where our capabilities are required.

Q: Can you tell us about your job?

A: I serve as both Tindal’s Senior Base Air Crew Officer and as the CHC Search and Rescue (SAR) equipment specialist. As an Air Crew Officer, my responsibilities range from aircraft cabin management to winching a medic or Rescue Crew Officer down to a ship and then providing medical care to those we rescue.

In my SAR specialist role, I research, test and review equipment and make recommendations for the purchase of any new equipment for use on operations.

I joined CHC in March 1993 as rescue crew and have transitioned through various roles within the company, including EMS (Emergency Medical Service) operations.

Q: What stands out about CHC?

A: We have a 35-year history providing helicopter Search and Rescue services with the Australian Department of Defence. This has allowed us to refine and adapt our system and procedures to prioritise efficiency, safety and quality.

We also have a vast network of highly experienced crews that can respond to multiple different situations wherever they may be in the country. For example, many of us are qualified operators on multiple aircraft types across different working environments. Our standardisation of operations across all operations ensures a smooth transition when moving between locations or aircraft types, meaning our customers can get the same quality service all across Australia.

Q: How has the technology evolved since you started?

A: Over the years, we’ve evolved from analogue aircraft with a limited hover capability over the ocean at night, to modern semi-digital aircraft with full auto-hover capabilities over water and equipped with forward-looking infrared (FLIR) cameras and modern fast dual hoists. This is a vast improvement to our efficiency and safety during operations.

At CHC, we are the only operator in Australia that can complete auto-hover operations to winch a patient in a stretcher from the water at night.

Q: What qualities or skills do you think are essential for success in your role?

A: For anyone in Rescue or Air Crew operations, water confidence is crucial. It’s not just about being a good swimmer; you need to be able to “work” in the water. You need to be able to operate in the dark, with waves and wind, and maintain your composure to follow the procedures. It's not a job for everyone.  It can be a demanding job that requires a specific character and skill set.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?

A: The unpredictability of each day is what I enjoy most. If a task comes in, you have to be adaptable to get it done. The information may change enroute so any plans you’ve made may need to be constantly re-assessed until you arrive on scene. Making a plan, then executing it and successfully completing it gives me job satisfaction.

Q: How do you work with the aircraft maintenance engineers team to ensure safety is a priority?

A: We work closely with the engineering team on a daily basis, as we're all stationed in the same hangar. Collaboration and communication are essential for ensuring smooth operations.

Q: What advice would you give to others looking to enter this field?

A: Stay fit and don’t give up if you don’t pass first time. Take on the feedback and continue to gather the necessary qualifications for the next time you apply. Build your water confidence and challenge your ability to work under water.