Baby born during rescue helicopter flight

An RACQ — CQ Rescue Helicopter spokesman said they were flying the mother back to the mainland from Hamilton Island at 7.09am (AEST) this morning when she was delivered.

"Flight paramedic Mel Bernas delivered the baby while the aircraft was on descent into Mackay airport only 14 minutes prior to landing," the spokesman said.

"The baby and mother were in good spirits and transported to Mackay Base Hospital.

"It is believed the Wollongong couple were married yesterday on Hamilton Island, so a very memorable wedding anniversary."

It was the first ever birth inside the RACQ — CQ Rescue helicopter, which celebrated its 14th birthday on September 1.