After more than a decade of dedicated service with CapRescue and over 30 years in aviation, Senior Pilot Mitch Vernon has made the decision to step away from the cockpit and begin a well-earned new chapter.
Mitch’s career has taken him to some of the most remote and challenging locations in the world—from Antarctica to the Middle East—where he undertook roles in movie filming, aerial crane operations, firefighting, offshore transport, VIP transport, and emergency medical services. However, it was here in Central Queensland, as part of the CapRescue crew, where Mitch found his most rewarding work.
“Every time that phone rang, we never knew what we’d be responding to, but we always knew it would be making a difference. That’s what I’ll miss the most—the team, the challenge, and the privilege of providing a lifesaving service to the community. I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of this organisation and to have worked alongside such a dedicated crew.”
One of Mitch’s most memorable tasks with CapRescue was when the crew responded to a young woman who had slipped down the face of Virgin Rock in Springsure back in 2015. She clung to a tiny branch growing out of the cliff face for several hours. Mitch’s expertise and professionalism in that moment were critical in ensuring the successful rescue, enabling the crew to reach the woman and bring her to safety.
CapRescue Operations Manager Kirsty Wooler expressed the team’s deep appreciation, saying, “Mitch has been such a valued part of the CapRescue family for the past 11.5 years, and it’s hard to imagine the hangar without him. His incredible knowledge and experience have made a difference in so many lives—both in the air and on the ground. More than just a pilot, he’s been a teammate and a friend to us all. While we’ll miss him dearly, we’re incredibly grateful for everything he’s given to CapRescue and wish him nothing but the best as he trades the skies for the open road.”
Fellow pilot Daniel Bagshaw also acknowledged Mitch’s impact, saying, “It’s been a real honour working with Mitch over the last decade. His experience and professional attitude helped myself and others navigate the skies with more knowledge than before we left. Mitch will be very missed, and I wish him all the best with his future adventures.”
As Mitch embarks on this new journey, he leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, dedication, and service. While the CapRescue team will miss him in the cockpit, his contributions will never be forgotten. From all of us at CapRescue—thank you, Mitch, and best wishes for the road ahead!