For over four decades, Alan Playford has stood at the crossroads of catastrophe and courage. From founding the life-saving Westpac helicopter service in 1979 to rescuing Norm Duffy from the rubble of the 1989 Newcastle Earthquake, Alan’s career is defined by heroism, innovation, and an unshakable sense of duty.

In this powerful conversation, we explore Alan’s extraordinary journey, from confronting child soldiers in Rwanda to leading calm in the chaos of the 2003 Canberra bushfires. With bravery awards and a legacy that helped shape modern paramedicine, Alan's story goes far beyond the headlines. It’s about sacrifice, survival, and the quiet strength behind a lifetime of service.

This episode is a tribute to a man whose life reminds us what it truly means to answer the call, again and again.

"Through The Rubble" by Alan Playford and Penny Keough out now through Big Sky Publishing

For over four decades, Alan Playford has stood at the crossroads of catastrophe and courage. From founding the life-saving Westpac helicopter service in 1979 to rescuing Norm Duffy from the rubble of the 1989 Newcastle Earthquake, Alan&rsquo;s career is defined by heroism, innovation, and an unshakable sense of duty.
In this powerful conversation, we explore Alan&rsquo;s extraordinary journey, from confronting child soldiers in Rwanda to leading calm in the chaos of the 2003 Canberra bushfires. With bravery awards and a legacy that helped shape modern paramedicine, Alan's story goes far beyond the headlines. It&rsquo;s about sacrifice, survival, and the quiet strength behind a lifetime of service.
This episode is a tribute to a man whose life reminds us what it truly means to answer the call, again and again. "Through The Rubble" by Alan Playford and Penny Keough out now through Big Sky Publishing

Weekdays from 3, The Hunter Today brings you the stories that matter, the music you love and the lifestyle that’s uniquely Newcastle and the Hunter.

Stay connected, stay informed and enjoy your afternoons on 2HD.

Weekdays from 3, The Hunter Today brings you the stories that matter, the music you love and the lifestyle that&rsquo;s uniquely Newcastle and the Hunter.
Stay connected, stay informed and enjoy your afternoons on 2HD.