We’d love to hear from YOU!
As part of our Oceans to Outback community, everyone has a story that makes their challenge meaningful. Whether you’ve been supported by the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), have a connection to the outback, or simply want to share your experience of participating in the challenge, we want to hear it.
Your story could inspire others to join or donate, helping to raise vital funds to keep the Flying Doctor flying.
Scroll down to see some of the stories already shared by our Oceans to Outback community.
Your Stories

Peter Wheaton
From: Townsville
A Tribute to The Bubble Head Stockman
The Bubble Head Stockman The bubble heads have landed After an early morning flight Long-legged wiry stockies Fuel up and grab a quick bite. The robo’s are sitting patiently Like kelpie dogs ready for a ride Ready to sweep the channels And find more to survive. From the Hughenden to Barragun, The brown waters soak away the land Flushing all the livelihoods With a quiet, emotionless hand It has been dry for a long time, But now a new challenge is flowing in The 74 flood is now forgotten 2025 is the new memory for the kin The communication is poor at best, Mobile seldom works The lonely solitude of the bush Has a fear that seldon lurks The squawk of a twoway radio And a bubble head checkin The rhythmic beat of an angel Replaces doubt with a positive wreckin With a circle of homestead And promise to check back in Off they go into the watery bliss They go searching for a win. I have seen them dance the pasodoble In the dusty winter skies Throwing around the bubble heads With nothing but a smile. I watch them gently maneuver the mob Stranded in the murky waters Once they hit dry, They spin out and find the other deserters They dread the endless questions, The truth that must be told. They stand in silent heartbreak As the owner's head slowly folds Out here we are all Queenslanders It's our job to lend a hand. Check in on all the neighbors Even the ones you can’t stand. Now the waters are going down, The work has changed gears Slings of av gas and hay Dangle from the strap at the rear A 44 appears out of the sun, Another sling is placed for the ride On a dry piece of dirt The relief is delivered with pride. So to all those bubble heads, All genders are mentioned Thank you for your tireless work We can’t repay your spender. For the mud army of tireless people The pubs, the stores, and trucks. We live in the land down under It's our Aussie luck. When it is time to repay your favours We will stand right next to you. We are Aussie-born and Aussie-bred That’s just what you do… @bushpreneur.

Kathy
From:
In memory of Scott
I am raising money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) in memory of my husband, Scott. Last year Scott became seriously unwell while we were travelling on the Nullarbor. It was nighttime and we were >400kms from medical assistance. The RFDS were able to land at a nearby mine site (who were also amazing) and got Scott to Kalgoorlie hospital, and from there once he was stable was flown to Perth. I can't imagine how much worse our situation would have been without them. The RFDS gave Scott a fighting chance, meant he was comfortable, and also gave not only myself but also our sons an opportunity to be with him during his final days. Thank you to everyone who works for, volunteers, and donates to this critical service.

Maree McGrath
From: Geraldton
Desert Life
2 years ago I spent 18 months living and working in the second most remote desert community in Australia in the North Gibson Desert. Although the community was serviced very reliably and competently by a full time remote nurse and fortnightly visits by doctors, and scheduled visits from other specialists, there were multiple occasions in that period where a health crisis necessitated a call-out to the RFDS. Just astonishing service and at any time of day or night. Pictured is one such night time call-out.

Krystin Martens
From: Albany
At 29 weeks pregnant, I needed an emergency flight from Albany to Perth — and the RFDS was there. Just one week later, at 30 weeks, I needed another urgent transfer. Once again, they came to my aid. Since then, they’ve flown Dustin to Perth countless times for treatment at the children’s hospital. I’ve truly lost count. What I do know is this: without the Flying Doctor, Dustin might not be here today.

Laurie Cavill
From: Gold Coast Qld
Gold Coast to the Bush
Although living as close to the beach as I can over the last twenty five years, I’ve spent almost 50% of my working life for the past decade or so with a huge crew of First Responders across southern Qld, particualry in the western regions. The tremendous work they do resonates with the outstanding Royal Flying Doctors service and what they have done and continue to do for the country people across our great nation. I welcome my opportunities here to support them in any small way possible.

Vic Cresp
From: Marong, Victoria
Senior Radio Control Flyers
We are a group of retired persons who gather on Fridays to fly our radio-controlled model aircraft. We fly from our club airfield just out of Marong, which is about half an hour drive from John Flynn's birthplace at Molialgul. We have decided to fund raise for the RFDS by charging $1 for each flight on Fridays during October by our members. Instead of running (which would not be possible because of age) we will RUN our aircraft engines.

Blake Hickey
From: Singleton, WA
I’m incredibly proud to share that my uncle, Captain R. Lee, dedicated many years of his life as a pilot for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) — one of Australia’s most vital and respected organizations. The RFDS is more than just a medical service — it’s a lifeline for countless families living in remote and regional communities. Their commitment to delivering emergency care, health services, and hope to the farthest corners of our country is nothing short of heroic. To me, and to many others, the RFDS are truly angels in our skies — flying through all conditions to ensure no one is left without help, no matter how far they are. Thank you to all the brave pilots, doctors, nurses, and support teams who make this mission possible every single day. And thank you, Uncle R. Lee, for being part of this legacy. Your service continues to inspire. 🛩️💙

Liz Phillips
From: Moore Park Beach Qld
A peaceful Sunday afternoon horseride didnt go as planned when my horse zapped himself on the electric fence while I was tacking up. He accidentally trampled me and this led to a series of medical challenges that saw me attend multiple hospitals locally for 3 surgeries to my leg and then a dash to Brisbane with RFDS when leg went septic for another 2 surgeries. After 5 months with leg elevated at home I was back at work. Its now 2 years on and whilst I've not yet got back on my horse, my life is back to normal. I've kept my leg and am so grateful for this and enjoy sunrise walks on the beach. I jumped on this challenge to give back to RFDS for making it possible for me to have 2 legs still and being able to walk. My goal is 100kms.

Alicia Freeman
From: Brisbane
My family
Of all organisations, the RFDS has had the biggest impact on my life and that of my family. In 2007, I developed a life threatening DVT and PE when pregnant with Grace. The RFDS flew me from Mount Isa to Townsville - saving me and my unborn child. In 2018, the RFDS flew my husband, Moz, from Mount Isa to Townsville to receive critical treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. In 2025, my Dad needed treatment which could not be received in Alice Springs so the RFDS flew him to Darwin and Adelaide. The individuals who spend their life in service to the people in the outback have the highest integrity and my deepest respect and gratitude. Please help raise money to keep this vital work accessible for our outback communities

Bianca Galley
From: Gatton
Growing up on cattle stations in central Australia, the Flying Drs were a big part of our lives. I wanted to get fitter and healthier (it’s probably going to hurt the first week or so lol and I’ll probably feel like I need the Flying Drs!) and if I can do that and raise money to support a very important service that rural Australians still very much rely on and value this will be a win win opportunity. Any donation or encouragement is very appreciated thank you for taking your time to read my spiel;)

Lizl Evetts
From: Normanton
2006 - RFDS saved my Twins and I
Our family have lived remote and rural over many years. The RFDS service were called in three times to save our lives. This most memorable time was when my twin boys birth was rushed due to me contracting preeclampsia. My organs were shutting down and we all faced dire circumstances of possible death. The RFDS stepped in and flew me to the Royal Brisbane from Rockhampton Hospital. Shaun and Neill were delivered safely at 31 weeks and flew back to Rockhampton’s neonatal ward for 7 week before going home to Woorabinda.. We had no cost involved in these very expansive flights and their care was second to none. Thank you for saving our lives!

Rowan Parry
From: Eaton Western Australia
Making a difference
Whilst traveling on a 5 month caravan trip through WA ,SA, NSW , and Queensland I heard many stories of how people had been helped by the RFDS . I also heard of situations where equipment was not suitably maintained due to lack of finance . So when Oceans to Outback challenge came up it was a no brainer I had to be involved.

Manu Kailahi
From: Mildura
The Gratitude I discovered.
My youngest son was diagnosed with ALL (childhood leukemia) & we were flown straight to Royal Childres Hospital Melbourne the very same day they told me they found leukemia cells in his blood results, and at that time my son was at his lowest, fever, dehydrated loss of appetite, very unsettled. To think if we had to endure a 6hr drive to Melbourne to get further testing done and begin his treatment I would have loss all patience. But soo grateful that we were flown there which only took an hr and we got there and started the whole process. Forever grateful for the services that especially help those who live out in rural areas!

Claire O'Loughlin
From: Millicent SA
I have nursed in both regional and remote areas in Australia; the Flying Doctors definitely collected sick and injured people that the smaller hospitals and clinics didn't have the equipment or the expertise required. Often when nursing in the Kimberly there were no doctors available which was often challenging, the flying doctors would advise us and give us confidence to help our patients. An amazing team of highly trained professionals😇 I had 25% of my lung removed in January and to raise funds for the flying doctor is the best reason to challenge myself into doing the walk!

Tracy Aylward
From: Brisbane
The Lucky Country
I live in the greater Brisbane metro region, and its easy to see a doctor when I need to, or get to the hospital in an emergency. I cannot imagine what its like to be living in the bush and needing to get to a doctor for treatment, or have a medical emergency without a fleet of ambulances on call. It takes a special kind of person, in todays world, to live in a remote place and work the land, or stay connected to your people, when it would be easier to move to a town or city where all the modcons are at your fingertips. I support the RFDS because it supports these people with true Aussie spirit and grit.

David Lodge
From: Morgan, South Australia
My experiences with the RFDS
Over the years I have had a lot of exposure to the RFDS. My first experience was very early in 1982, when I was living in the SA Outback. The station owner had come up to visit and look around the property. However, he was an old man who always dressed in a shirt buttoned up to the top of the collar, a suit jacket and long pants. As it was the middle of summer his choice of clothing was unsuitable. This day he’d been out driving around the huge property with the Manager when overcome by heat stroke, which intern led to chest pain. The RFDS were called and within a couple of hrs we had the plane do a low sweep over the homestead before landing on the airstrip. Whereas the owner survived he never came back to the pastoral country again, instead his son would do the trip. My second experience with the RFDS was in the town of Tarcoola in the Northwest Pastoral. A suicide attempt led to the Tarcoola Hospital calling out the RFDS. On this occasion the plane would not be arriving until after day, so lighting was required for the airstrip. The normal lighting failed so it was down to what I considered some “bush ingenious”. It was arranged for vehicles to head out and light up the airstrip using headlights. It worked well and the plane landed safely. Once the patient was loaded the plane was able to take off again. On the odd occasion I had the need to attend the Tarcoola Hospital on Doctor clinic days. My next experience was when I became a Volunteer with SAAS. Many times, I was involved with patient transfers from Waikerie Hospital to the Waikerie Airport and from there the patient would be loaded on the RFDS plane. My last experience was when I was flown from the Waikerie Airport to Adelaide Airport and taken by road to Flinders Medical Centre. I finally got to experience what I’d seen others do so many times before. The clinician was brilliant and could not be faulted. I consider the RFDS to be the “Angels in the sky” and for very good reason. The professionalism was second to none and my welfare was her number one priority. As we struck a fair bit of turbulence on the trip I was suffering from motion sickness, the RFDS nurse offered Ondansetron to calm my stomach which was took intravenously. Now it’s my turn to give back and my motivation for doing the Ocean to the Outback Walk. This is my first time for doing the walk, but I guarantee it will not be the last.

Sharyn Perez
From: Gold Coast
Honourable Spirit
Running with Strength and Purpose Taking part in the Oceans to Outback challenge is my way of running with perseverance, discipline, and purpose. Each kilometre I complete represents more than personal achievement—it advances a vital cause. I’m proud to take action and make a difference alongside the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). Every stride I run helps ensure essential medical care reaches people in city, coastal, rural, or remote areas, where it can truly be a lifeline. This challenge is not just about crossing the finish line. It is about honour, perseverance, and being part of something that ensures vital medical care reaches people across city, coastal, rural, or remote areas, heart and land, while making a meaningful impact.

Anastasia Paris
From: Baulkham Hills
Finding Strength in My Own Challenge
Taking part in the Oceans to Outback challenge has been a way for me to stay consistent with my fitness, but also to remind myself that every step can contribute to something bigger. I live in Sydney (Baulkham Hills) and while I’m in a metro area, I know the Flying Doctor Service is a lifeline for so many people in rural and remote communities. Knowing my efforts help raise awareness and funds gives my training more purpose. For me, it’s not just about finishing the challenge — it’s about being part of something that connects city and country, and making sure the support is there for those who need it most.

Bryce Austin
From: Roma to Toowoomba
Mental health emergency
“I have had multiple psychotic episodes over the years that have led me to mental health wards. During one of these times, I became manic and entered into psychosis. Wanting to be close to family, I drove with my partner and child to Roma. At the time, I was using medicinal cannabis, which unfortunately led to drug-induced psychosis. Things escalated, and I was taken to Roma Hospital by police and ambulance. It was there that I was told I needed to be airlifted to Toowoomba. Hearing that was daunting — I was overwhelmed and scared. Because I struggled with being strapped down, I was given ketamine for most of the flight. Even in that vulnerable state, I will never forget how the doctors treated me. They cared for me with such respect and kindness — as if I was their own child. That experience left a deep mark on me. The RFDS is very special to me, not only because of the care I received, but also because of my aunty Sylvia de Jongh. She was a long-time supporter of John Flynn and the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and her passing left a legacy of faith and service. In many ways, I see John Flynn, my aunty’s support, and the Flying Doctors as part of my journey to being born again. I will always be grateful to the doctors and crew who carried me safely that day. The RFDS is more than a service — it’s a lifeline, and I’m proud to share my story.”

Kylie Martucci
From: Cairns Queensland
My son was born with a super rare genetic condition at just 4 weeks old it has come with multiple complications with thanks from the rural flying doctor we were transported from cairns base hospital to the Queensland children’s hospital. We had pilot Glenn and Marty flight nurse Melissa and doctor Elsie they reassure us the whole 3 hour flight without the FRDS this transfer wouldn’t have been possible to be able to see 9 different specialists. This October I will be walking and raising awareness for the royal flying doctors and raising much needed funds to help kids like our boy get to these bigger hospitals to get seen by specialist doctors.

Rabina
From:
My story
As a nurse, I see every day how vital access to healthcare is. I also know that for many people in rural and remote parts of Australia, getting the care they need isn’t as simple as walking into a hospital or seeing a GP. That’s why the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) inspires me so much—they go above and beyond to deliver life-saving care to people who might otherwise have no access at all. I’ve joined Oceans to Outback because I want to make a difference for these communities. The RFDS means mums can safely give birth, kids can get emergency care when they’re injured, and families don’t have to face medical crises alone—no matter how far from the city they live. Your support will help keep this incredible service in the sky and on the ground, reaching those who need it most. If you can, please donate through my fundraising page. Every dollar helps make sure someone, somewhere, gets the care they deserve. https://www.oceanstooutback.org.au/fundraisers/rabinalamsal Together, we can help bring hope and healing across Australia 💙

Edwina Smith
From: Duffy A.C.T
'Victory' Over Distance. A Poem by Edwina Smith.
My name is Edwina Smith and I am a retired nurse/midwife from Canberra. I enjoy writing poems with rural themes. I have written a poem titled 'Victory' Over Distance'. It's about the history of R.F.D.S. from it's beginning to the fantastic service we have today. I was delighted to hear of 'Oceans to Outback' fundraiser and would like to share my poem with its participants. I hope you enjoy it. Kind regards, Edwina. ‘VICTORY’ OVER DISTANCE. A POEM BY EDWINA SMITH. A wild, rugged land With ancient cliffs and rocks Endless blue skies Finches fly in flocks Where desert peas bloom Their flowers red and black Rest upon dry earth Way off the beaten track Generous in spirit Resilient and strong Loving where they live Though distances are long Working in The Outback On sheep or cattle station Warmth and witty humour The heartbeat of our nation! Yet so far away from town And all we take for granted When injury or illness strike The bush is less enchanted In past days, a choice between To travel or to wait Wet the soul with salty tears If help came way too late Sparked by a letter Seeing those in need A kind and caring Reverend Prepared to plant the seed Hope spread its wings Time to curb the cost For people in The Outback Too many lives were lost Then it all began Interest surely grew Minds came together Sharing all they knew Flynn’s vision gathered pace Fuelled by those who care ‘Victory’ over distance flew A patient in the air! Can The Bush be heard In situations dire? Precious time never gained By word along the wire A clever plan soon began To save the darkest hour Doctor’s voice, a faster choice With Traeger’s Peddle Power! The Service grew over time To what it is today If Flynn could share a word I wonder what he’d say “Helping people in The Bush Exactly as we should.” Maybe with a happy grin “I think it’s pretty good.” See the magic splendour Of sunset and sunrise The stillness of night Dark twinkling skies It’s much safer now Living way Outback Flying Doctor’s on the way! Way off the beaten track EDWINA SMITH. 25th May, 2025.

Maya
From: Cairns Far North Queensland
My WHY for Oceans to Outback 2025 💚
Hello, I’m Maya ❤️ I’m new to this beautiful community, and this is my first year participating in the Oceans to Outback challenge. So hi, lovely people 👋🏼 I’ve just turned 24 and I’m from the beautiful Tropics in Far North Queensland 🌴 At 24, I never thought I’d need a walking stick or mobility support, and I certainly didn’t expect the challenges I’ve faced since my car accident at the beginning of 2024. I still struggle daily with chronic neuropathic and persistent pain in various parts of my body, continence issues, recurring whiplash, chronic migraines, neck pain and multiple spinal injuries (to name a few). Recovery has been a long road, with daily hurdles that some may find unimaginable. Some days I stumble, lose my balance, hobble, or wobble my way forward… but I’m still standing and taking this one step at a time (literally). I’m living proof that recovery is possible, and I’m grateful to be alive and to turn every step into purpose. Through my work in rural areas, I’ve seen firsthand just how vital the RFDS is. Australia is huge, and for many people living in remote, regional, or rural areas, access to immediate care isn’t guaranteed. In some communities, the nearest hospital is an eight-hour drive away. While I personally didn’t need the Flying Doctor after my accident, I can only imagine the genuinely lifesaving difference they make for those who do. While it may not seem like much to some, every kilometre I walk means something to me. I have made a commitment to myself to do this for the betterment of my physical and mental health and overall wellbeing. It’s a small personal challenge that allows me to give back and help others in serious need. 💚 Overnight, thanks to everyone’s kindness and support, I’ve already raised over $160! I’m humbled and so thankful, and this is only just the beginning 💚 I can’t wait for my beautiful blue shirt to arrive and to wear it proudly on this journey 👕 If my mission resonates with you, or you’d like to support me, even $5 or $10 would mean the world and help keep the Flying Doctor flying. 💙 Donate here: https://www.oceanstooutback.org.au/s/67792/75828 Thank you so much for reading, and I can’t wait to follow along and cheer on everyone else in this amazing group initiative! With gratitude, Maya 🙏🏻

Jocelyn Watts
From: Hervey Bay
RFDS Has Been There for My Family – Now I’m Giving Back
In September 2001, my now-late husband, Don, and I were on the 1000km drive from Maryborough to Barcaldine after learning Dad was in the Barcy hospital with pneumonia and wasn’t responding to treatment. The Flying Doctor had been called from Roma to fly him to Brisbane, but he never made it. Dad – the first baby born at Muttaburra Hospital after Dr Arratta arrived in 1925 (the hospital is now the Dr Arratta Memorial Museum) – was too weak to travel, and passed away as Don and I were approaching Rockhampton. Fast forward to 2025, and Mum – now 94 – is in care at Barcaldine Hospital, where I was born. Over the past few years, she’s had several fractures that required air transfers to Rockhampton for treatment. During our married life, Don and I lived in eight different regional towns and cities. Some had solid medical services, others not so much. In Maryborough, one of our friends was a pilot with Angel Flight Australia, and it really brought home just how critical these services are in a country as vast as ours. Out here, healthcare isn’t just about convenience – it can literally be the difference between life and death. Friends who’ve lived rurally often say they’d love to go back, but hesitate because of limited medical services, especially as they get older. I completely understand. That’s why I’m taking part in the Oceans to Outback challenge this October, from my base in Hervey Bay. If I can do my bit to help raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service – and keep this vital service in the air – then I’m proud to do so. Every dollar helps keep the Flying Doctor flying – thank you for your support.

Cass
From: Geraldton
In April of this year, I was off the coast of Geraldton with Marine Rescue when our boat was hit by a rogue wave. I was thrown out of my seat and landed as badly as possible, breaking three of my vertebrae. Fortunately, nobody else was injured and they were able to bring me back to shore using their training and skill. At our regional hospital it quickly became apparent that I needed a specialist unit to manage my injuries and the closest one was a five-hour drive. The solution: the RFDS. I was very heavily medicated, so my memories of that time are a little disjointed. I do, however, remember the extreme care taken by the team in planning and moving me, and the calm competence at every step. I remember how kind and caring the medics were, at a time when I was frightened and in pain. As a pilot, I particularly remember the smoothest plane landing I have ever experienced. Once in Perth, I was able to access the specialist medical assistance that I needed. The goals in my recovery were tiny in appearance but huge victories for me; my first target was standing up. Once released and finally home, my first walking goal was 50m from the house. The road to recovery has been painfully slow, in every sense of the word. I am still unable to ride a bike, lift a basket of wet washing, put a plant in the ground or touch my toes, let alone work or travel. Not every day is progress and some days see me crying with pain. On those days, I remind myself that I broke my back and walked away from it - even if it is a slow, slightly limping walk. Living in regional Australia and working in the remote Pilbara, I understood that the RFDS provided an essential service. The sight of green medical chests and Pilatus planes waiting on the apron are a part of life out in the red dust. However, it isn't until you are having one of the worst days of your life that you realise just what a remarkable service the RFDS really provides. So this October I will be walking the Oceans to Outback challenge because the RFDS are a part of the reason that I *can* walk it.

Justine Wilson
From: Kalgoorlie wa
Horse injury
My worst nightmare come true in one afternoon, my 4 yr old daughter got kicked in the top of head by her horse when it got a fright and the health clinic in the small town we lived in at time, got straight on to the rfds to fly is to Charleville Qld. She ended up with 9 stitches and home to drain any blood. She fully recovered with no effects and still loves horses. Rfds is a life saving service that I would support in a heart beat.

Katrina Pugsley
From: North MacLean QLD
I just want to Support the Royal Flying Doctors Service
I love the country and see the benefit from having this service available for people who need it. I am a horse rider and have seen many people need the help of the RFDS and I would like to do my bit to try and help raise much needed funds. So I thought why not join in this fundraiser and see how I can contribute.

Tracey McPhee
From: Bundaberg
I’ve pledged to complete 97km – the distance from Bundaberg to Gin Gin and back
I’ve pledged to complete 97km – the distance from Bundaberg to Gin Gin and back – as part of the Oceans to Outback challenge. While I don’t have a personal RFDS story or a direct connection to the outback, I believe wholeheartedly in the incredible work the Royal Flying Doctor Service does. They are a vital lifeline for our regional community, providing essential medical care when it’s needed most. Last year I had the privilege of helping to pull an RFDS plane along the tarmac for a fundraising event – so when I saw this challenge, I felt it was my duty to step up again. Every kilometre I walk is my way of showing support and to help keep the Flying Doctor flying.

Sharon McNally
From: Whitsundays
Chest Holder
As an island lover, living in remote Australia there’s nothing more reassuring than having the RFDS at your fingertips! Having to need to use the CHEST is daunting but the team talk you through every step to provide immediate medical support in an emergency! Without the CHEST a lot of patients would have suffered! Thank goodness for RFDS !!

keith vass
From: Hervey bay, QLD
After retirement, I found a yacht which took me and a cat from Cairns to Mooloolaba and back several times, visiting Lizard Island and Cooktown on the way. After 10 years of being a grotty yachtie, I tied up at the Urangan Marina and called it quits. Sold my boat "Opal" and bought a place in Hervey Bay. In order to keep fit, I selected a recumbent trike called a Scorpion FS20 and made many, many enjoyable circuits of Hervey Bay before trying out for the "Tour de Brisbane" in 2023. After fitting a mid-drive motor, I entered the 50km ride in the 2025 Tour, which I won! I can't recommend recumbent trikes highly enough for exercise, touring and mental health!

Toni Timspn
From: Coral Bay
My story
Would like th share my story of how I wouldn’t possibly be here today to tell my story if it wasn’t for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. It all started with a little back ache which progressively got worse over 48hrs after attending our little nursing post & a telescreen appointment with a specialist in Perth, it was decided I probably had kidney stones & needed to travel to Carnarvon hospital 2.5hrs away for an ultrasound, so hubby bundled me into our vehicle & off we went arriving at about 7pm. The Doctor in Emergency made the call not to wait till the morning for the scan & made a call, 30mins later I was in ultrasound taken back to my bed & Doctor came to inform me that it wasn’t kidney stones to which was great news had heard horror stories on that.... But he stood there & looked at me & his exact words where don’t celebrate yet, it’s much worse, we have ordered the Flying Doctor, you are going to Perth for lifesaving emergency surgery... my world crashed around me... went through every emotion & Garry just looked devastated ultrasound had discovered a twisted bowel, so I was prepped for a scary journey & headed off to Sir Charles Gardner Hospital in Perth for the emergency surgery where I stayed for 10 days now fully recovered. I owe them my life, so now 12 months after a knee replacement I’m ready to give back & join this great cause!

Barry Burns
From: Wangaratta
Picked up by RFD Service
I was riding the Mountain Bike Crocodile Trophy, I had a crash on the 9th or 10th day and was huge pain, the Doctors came along and gave me some Pain killers and then some more, as it was 200k one way and something similar (cannot remember) the other nearest Hospital. So the RFDS was called and I was transported to Cairns and Hospital.. the pilot said in instructions and I replied just be gentle, I had a broken my right Scapula and it was extremely painful, the trip in I did not feel the take off or the landing and they stopped off at another place to pick up another patient.. The pilot and staff were incredible

Gemma Shaw
From: Richmond QLD
My Grandfather’s Final Flight with the Royal Flying Doctor Service
This cause is incredibly close to my heart. In my grandfather’s final days, we were blessed by the compassion and professionalism of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). Living in Richmond, QLD, he needed urgent medical care — the nearest hospital in Townsville was over 5 hours away by road. Time we didn’t have. Thanks to the RFDS, he was able to receive high-quality, patient-centered care during a critical moment. They flew him safely and with dignity, giving him and us, the comfort of knowing he was in the best hands. What stood out wasn’t just the medical expertise - it was the compassion. Their care extended to us as a family. In a time of fear and sadness, we felt supported, heard, and held. That final flight gave us more than just medical help - it gave us peace. It truly is a LIFELINE for people living in rural areas and on properties when the nearest medical help could be hundreds of kms away.