You see back in March, I volunteered, on behalf of the Port Macquarie News, to raise money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, a vital organisation that responds to emergencies all over NSW.

And as part of the fund raising efforts – or as a way to entice more people to sponsor me and the rescue service – after I raised as much money as I could, I would voluntarily abseil off the Rydges Hotel in Port Macquarie as the big finale.

I am not quite sure why the rational side of my brain decided to shut down for a moment, but in doing so, I raised my hand and said I was up for the challenge.

To date I have raised over $1000 and I can also proudly say I have now abseiled Rydges Hotel – a win for the service and a win for the daredevil living inside of me.

I have never had to use the services of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, but then again, I don’t think the 1.5 million people in NSW who have used the service, thought they would need to either. 

On average the Westpac Rescue Helicopter flies eight critical missions into the Mid North Coast each week, helping people who have had accidents and medical emergencies to get to the life saving help they need.

After spending months getting donations, June 1 finally arrived. All morning I was buzzing with excitement, my work colleagues thought I was crazy, my friends were incredulous and my family thought an intervention was necessary. But I was ready.

And it was one of the best experiences of my life. I am proud of myself and the other leapers who all faced their fears and took the plunge. 

I do have to say thank you to the lovely men who took care of all the safety issues and ensured we made it to the ground in one piece.

But after raising money for a vital, free service, I think I ended up the lucky one, being able to do something so exciting and thrilling right here in Port Macquarie.

The final numbers of how much Port Macquarie leaders have raised is still being counted, but there is still time to donate.