Qld tries deliver donation for lifesaving helicopter crews
Westpac’s Tries for Lives initiative has delivered a $85,000 donation to the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service in Queensland, following the 2026 State of Origin series.
Through Tries for Lives, Westpac donates $5,000 for every try scored by the Queensland Maroons men’s and women’s teams across the State of Origin series.
This year, 17 tries were scored across both campaigns, helping raise funds to support the Service’s lifesaving operations across Queensland.
The donation will help support the crews, equipment and resources needed to respond to keep the Queensland community safe - from coastal patrols, to search and rescue missions and inland emergencies.
Chris Langton, Westpac State General Manager for Queensland said: “State of Origin is part of the fabric of Queensland and Tries for Lives gives every Maroons try an even bigger purpose. It’s a practical way to turn the passion of Origin into support for the crews who are there for Queenslanders when it matters most.
“Whether responding along the coast, supporting communities inland or helping when they need it most, the Service plays a critical role across the state. We’re pleased to support that work through our long-standing partnership.”
Glenn Ottaway, Acting CEO of Queensland Rugby League (QRL) said: “The Queensland Maroons men’s and women’s teams are proud to support Tries for Lives and the important work of the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service.
“Every try scored by the Maroons this series has helped raise funds for a service that supports Queensland communities in some of their most challenging moments. It’s a great reminder that Origin is about more than what happens on the field, it’s also about the pride, connection and community spirit that rugby league brings across Queensland.”
Jon Turley, General Manager Aviation at Surf Life Saving Queensland, who operate the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service, said: “We’re very grateful to Westpac and QRL for their continued support through Tries for Lives. This donation will help support our crews and operations across Queensland, ensuring we can continue to respond quickly and safely when people need urgent help.
“Support like this makes a real difference to our ability to deliver lifesaving care across the state, and we thank everyone involved in making Tries for Lives such a meaningful initiative.”
The Tries for Lives initiative is part of Westpac’s broader commitment to supporting communities through long-standing partnerships with the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service, Queensland Rugby League, the NRL and NSW Rugby League.
