We know lots of Australians visit Bali for its waves, wellness experiences and walks so here's a good news story from there.
A critical emergency airlift has been successfully carried out in a remote part of Sumba, marking the first official mission for the FINNS-supported Search & Rescue (SGI) helicopter program.
The incident unfolded on Sunday evening when two international travellers were seriously injured in an accident in an isolated area of the island.
One person suffered head injuries, while the other sustained a severe leg fracture. With limited access to medical facilities and no immediate evacuation options available, a local resort reached out to SGI for urgent assistance on Monday.
Within an hour of the request, the FINNS Search & Rescue helicopter was deployed from Bali, carrying a full response team including two pilots, a loadmaster, a mechanic, and an emergency doctor from Nusa Medica. Due to Indonesia’s night flying restrictions, the team paused overnight in Bima before continuing to Sumba early the next morning.
The complex operation involved multiple pick-up points, including a landing at a football field near a regional hospital, followed by a second evacuation at a coastal resort.
Both patients were stabilised before being flown back via Bima for refuelling, and then safely transported to Bali. Upon arrival, they were transferred by ambulance to BIMC Hospital in Nusa Dua for further treatment.
A FINNS spokesperson said the mission highlights the importance of rapid emergency response services in remote regions, where timely medical care can be difficult to access.
FINNS
Founded in 2010 and based in Bali, Indonesia, FINNS Bali is the parent company of several iconic lifestyle and hospitality venues, including FINNS Beach Club, FINNS Recreation Club and FINNS Bali Resort (opening this year).