The Tasmanian government has awarded a 12-year, $354 million contract for emergency aviation services to mainland company StarFlight, ending a 25-year tenure by local operator Rotor-Lift. The decision, announced after a comprehensive tender process, includes services such as search and rescue, medical evacuations, and law enforcement operations across the state.
Rotor-Lift, established in 1991 as a helicopter sales and maintenance company, has been a staple in Tasmania’s emergency services. The company’s managing director, Allana Corbin, expressed her devastation over the loss, describing the business as a family built over decades. “After 25 years of service to the community, it’s the end of our contract, which is devastating to all of us,” she said.
Government’s Perspective on the Contract Shift
Health Secretary Dale Webster emphasized that the contract with StarFlight represents the best value for money and a significant upgrade in capability. “It brings in new technology, it brings in additional capability including winching of stretchers from the ground,” Webster noted, highlighting features not available in the current fleet.
Health Minister Bridget Archer defended the tender process as “open and competitive,” acknowledging Rotor-Lift’s longstanding service while emphasizing the need for enhanced capabilities. “We believe we’ve come up with a contract that is value for money for Tasmanians, returns social and economic benefit to Tasmanians and importantly lifts the capability of our fleet,” she stated.
Rotor-Lift’s Response and Concerns
Despite the government’s assurances, Corbin criticized the tender process as poorly executed, claiming Rotor-Lift was not consulted adequately. She argued that maintaining their current operations would have cost the government significantly less than the new contract. “We’ve been treated like the enemy for five years,” she said. “We’ve provided a Versace service at a Kmart price.”
Corbin also mentioned the emotional impact, referencing her late husband Roger, who led the company until his death in a 2017 crash. “It’s not just a business. It’s so unique and for me, it’s deeply, deeply personal,” she added.
StarFlight’s Commitment to Tasmania
StarFlight, Australia’s largest aeromedical service, plans to introduce new aircraft and personnel, along with training opportunities through an academy in Tasmania. Director Jim Elder assured that the company would ensure a successful transition, leveraging local talent and resources. “Our commitment to Tasmania … is to make sure all Tasmanians get the service and opportunity that they deserve in terms of the medical services,” Elder stated.
Acting Tasmania Police Commissioner Jonathan Higgins praised the new helicopters’ capabilities, which include infrared cameras and advanced mission management systems. “They’ll be able to track them from a greater distance above and more effectively with the mapping systems in place,” he explained, underscoring the benefits for search and rescue operations.
Looking Ahead
The new service will be based at Cambridge aerodrome, with a state government-run aerobase yet to be constructed. While negotiations on the lease price continue, Webster indicated it would be around $2.1 million annually. The contract is set to commence in January 2026, with Rotor-Lift’s current operations concluding at the end of their contract.
As Tasmania transitions to this new chapter in emergency aviation services, the focus remains on ensuring minimal disruption and maximizing the benefits of the enhanced capabilities for the state’s residents.
