RFDS Local Hero – Royal Flying Doctor Service QLD

They become part of our household.

Mount Isa | Gregory QCWA

The hardworking ladies of the remote Gregory township Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) are fundamental to the operation of the fortnightly RFDS primary health care clinic. This dedicated group of ladies and locals ensure the clinic facility is cleaned, meals are prepared for the Flying Doctor team and the crew is transported from the airstrip to the clinic. They also tirelessly fundraise to make sure the Flying Doctor clinic has everything it needs for the healthcare of their community.

I'd be lost without the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Roma | Trent and Elizabeth Challenger

Trent and Elizabeth Challenger are a husband-and-wife team who own and run the St George Bakery. After a road accident and a close call that saw Trent transported by the RFDS he now uses his classic Model T to provide tourists with a nostalgic trip around St George, donating the fare to the Flying Doctor. His witty and winning tour commentary had made him a local celebrity known to grey nomads and locals alike.

I’ll always be there for them like they’ve always been there for me and everybody else.

Bundaberg | The Rotary Club of Bundaberg

The Rotary Club of Bundaberg are there for people in their community just like the RFDS. Matt Griffiths brings personal passion to his work for the RFDS having sat by his son’s side when he was transported to Brisbane for live saving medical intervention. With the RFDS Bundaberg Base opening this year these energetic Rotarians have come to the fore with their generous donation, assistance with moving and bringing the garden to life.

RFDS doctors and nurses are probably the best clinicians I've ever worked with.

Townsville | Gregory Clark

Gregory Clark, an occupational nurse at the Ravenswood gold mine is dedicated to the health and well-being of the entire community. In fact, his advice and compassion has literally been life saving. Whether it’s responding to a heart attack, or administering treatment to a broken bone, his dedication and professionalism shines through. The Ravenswood Flying Doctor clinic appreciates his continual commitment to the healthcare of this community.

We just enjoy doing what we do.

Rockhampton | RFDS Volunteer Auxiliary

The Rockhampton RFDS Volunteer Auxiliary began donating to the Service in 1994, working tirelessly ever since to help raise vital funds. They’ve raised over $1.3 million during that time.

The auxiliary hosts morning tea events at Rockhampton Heritage Village every three months but when COVID caused them to put this on hold, they set up a pop-up shop that raised $25,000 in a month. Nothing can stop these committed volunteers.

If you didn't have the Flying Doctor mental health service locally it would be of detriment to people in the area.

Longreach | Bede Little

Bede Little, the Senior Constable for Ilfracombe in Central Queensland, loves his work and has the outback in his blood. Last year, he was a key organiser for a family fun day as a way to unite the community, boost morale and open up a conversation around mental health. Representatives of the RFDS Outback Mental Health team were invited to speak with attendees and the event raised $4,000 for the RFDS Outback Mental Health team in Longreach.

Flying Doctor, Flying Busker it literally just came to me.

Brisbane | Jane Milward & The Flying Buskers

When Jane Milward discovered the ukulele was a highly portable instrument of joy she set off with her van and her dog and started raising funds for the RFDS. Her equally passionate group of ukulele lovers, “The Flying Buskers” have combined their passion for performing with that for the Flying Doctor in Brisbane and all over Queensland. Whichever corner they sing on they amplify the work of the Flying Doctor.

I'm just part of a wonderful community that's like a jigsaw. Together, we can make things happen.

Charleville | Sue McDonald

All the way from industrial England to the outback, Sue McDonald is a force to be reckoned with. Having many personal experiences with the RFDS she, along with the Buckland Recreation Club, has been a driving force behind raising funds and promoting health in her community through the RFDS Field Day. The Buckland Recreation Club maintains the airstrip for the RFDS and supports them when they arrive whether it be for field days or emergency evacuations.

Once they get here it's a big relief

Cairns | James Telford

James Telford, a helicopter pilot, was working on Van Rook Station when alerted to a critical car accident in a remote area of the property. One of the first on the scene, James realised that the sole passenger needed urgent medical attention. He was able to transport her to Dorunda station where the RFDS landed just on nightfall. James’ timely and brave actions ensured the patient made a full recovery.

Volunteers and supporters keep the heart of the Flying Doctor beating.

Vote for your Local Hero and they could win a $7500 grant
to promote healthcare in their community.

Gregory QCWA

Trent and Elizabeth Challenger

The Rotary Club of Bundaberg

Gregory Clark

RFDS Volunteer Auxiliary

Bede Little

Jane Milward & The Flying Buskers

Sue McDonald

James Telford