In a landmark move for the island’s emergency response infrastructure, FINNS Beach Club has officially launched Bali’s first dedicated search and rescue (SAR) helicopter equipped with hoist capability, setting a new benchmark for public-private collaboration in tourism safety.
The helicopter, funded and supported by FINNS Beach Club, will be operated by SGI (Sayap Garuda Indah), a Bali-based search and rescue organisation committed to lifesaving operations across the island. The initiative has been developed in close collaboration with Indonesia’s national search and rescue agency, BASARNAS, reinforcing strong government backing and a shared commitment to strengthening emergency readiness particularly in high-traffic coastal and tourism zones.
The introduction of a hoist-capable rescue helicopter significantly enhances Bali’s ability to respond to emergencies across both land and sea. From ocean incidents along the island’s busy beaches to hard-to-reach inland terrain, the aircraft is expected to dramatically improve response times and operational reach.
Medical assistance under the SAR collaboration between SGI and BASARNAS will be supported by Nusa Medica, serving as the official medical services partner.
The helicopter and partnership were unveiled during a high-profile launch event at FINNS Beach Club’s Elite Rooftop Cabana. The media event featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), formally confirming that BASARNAS is working hand in hand with SGI and fully endorses the mission.
Guests and media witnessed a live simulated ocean rescue demonstration, including a flyby and hoist operation, offering a first-hand look at the advanced rescue capability now deployed in Bali. A panel discussion with representatives from FINNS, SGI and BASARNAS further highlighted the importance of collaboration between government agencies, community organisations and responsible private sector leaders to strengthen safety outcomes for both residents and international visitors.
For FINNS Beach Club, the initiative represents a long-term investment in community safety and tourism resilience.
“Safety is fundamental to everything we do at FINNS,” said Beau Whittington, CEO & Hospitality Leader, FINNS Global (Bali). “Australians make up one of the largest visitor groups to Bali, and with that comes a responsibility to help ensure the island has strong, reliable rescue capability. We are proud to be funding and supporting this helicopter and to be working alongside SGI and BASARNAS to help protect both the local community and the many Australians who choose Bali as their second home.”
A spokesperson from SGI added that the partnership significantly strengthens operational capacity, allowing teams to respond more quickly and effectively to emergencies across the island. Representatives from BASARNAS reaffirmed their full support, noting that partnerships between government agencies and responsible private sector leaders play a vital role in enhancing national emergency response outcomes.
Together, FINNS, SGI and BASARNAS aim to set a new benchmark for how hospitality brands, community organisations and government can work together to deliver meaningful, real-world impact in one of Southeast Asia’s busiest tourism destinations.
As part of its long-term commitment, FINNS has embedded ongoing in-venue fundraising initiatives designed to keep the helicopter operational and support SGI’s lifesaving work beyond launch day.
At the centre of this effort is a dedicated FINNS x SGI fundraising menu, available across the venue, with 100% of proceeds directed to search and rescue operations.
Featured experiences and drinks include:
- The S.O.S Delivery: A premium bottle delivery experience featuring a custom shadow box message and full bottle service, transforming each table into a symbolic “helipad moment.”
- The “What the Heli” Delivery: An elevated bottle service experience with enhanced production elements, designed to create high-impact moments while directly contributing to rescue funding.
- FINNS x SGI Signature Cocktail: The High-Flyer – Created exclusively for the partnership, with proceeds supporting helicopter operations.
- FINNS x SGI Shooter: Lemon Drop – Available as single shots or shared formats, providing guests with an accessible way to contribute.
Through this model, FINNS is turning everyday hospitality moments into tangible contributions toward Bali’s emergency response capability, funding ongoing helicopter operations, training and rescue readiness in partnership with SGI and BASARNAS.