2022/23 Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) Annual Report

Annual Report 2022/23

About the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section)

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) (RFDS) is dedicated to providing vital healthcare to everyone, no matter where they live, work, or travel.

We operate from nine bases, including Brisbane, Bundaberg, Cairns, Charleville, Longreach, Mount Isa, Rockhampton, Roma, Townsville. These bases form a strategic network and help deliver the finest healthcare to all Queenslanders in regional, rural and remote areas.

Providing a mantle of safety for people in the bush has been the organisation’s mission since the very beginning of the Service in 1928.

Throughout our celebrated history, we have pushed the boundaries to make a real difference in the lives of people in the bush.

Nearly 100 years on, the Flying Doctor has expanded from aeromedical retrievals to provide inter-facility transfers, primary health care clinics, mental health consultations, telehealth and oral health services.

Growth has always been an important part of the RFDS story in Queensland.

Throughout this document, you will see reference to our five pillars for long-term growth. These five areas are a high-level set of priorities that frame our directions for change and will help us organise and plan our work over the next five years.

Our Towards 100 artwork

Our journey is shared. Our spirit is strong.

The artwork concept and narrative were developed by David Williams. David is a proud Wakka Wakka artist at Gilimbaa. The artwork is featured on our new mobile dental service, pictured on the front cover.

At the heart of the artwork sits RFDS; encapsulated by the central circular element. Just like RFDS’s role in modern Queensland, this element is a unique and central part of the artwork; it is the starting point of its narrative and the linchpin on which RFDS’s artwork story is told.

The propeller engine is synonymous with flight, and its subtle inclusion as part of the expanded central element pays tribute to not only the RFDS’s storied heritage, but its current and future journey of working towards being a more inclusive and welcoming service.

Growth is vital to RFDS and is represented by the five unique ‘growth pillar’ elements on the right-hand side of the artwork. The six ‘services’ elements shining brightly in Sky Country above pay tribute to not only traditional First Nations methods of navigating by the stars, but how early pioneers of flight did so too.

The rich colours shown throughout are drawn from the diverse Countries of Queensland, from the ocean to the desert. Every element is a part of the story; everything is connected.

The connections represented in the artwork are in pairs of straight lines, symbolising RFDS flight paths all over the state. These connections keep our communities strong and are built on the dedication, care and hard work that RFDS has offered Queenslanders for close to 100 years.

1. Her Excellency presenting our CEO, Meredith Staib with a Patronage certificate

2. Her Excellency visiting the RFDS Brisbane Base

3. Her Excellency visiting RFDS Dental staff in Springsure

4. The Governor and Professor Nimmo visiting the RFDS Bundaberg Base

5. Her Excellency and Professor Nimmo inside the RFDS Mobile Dental Unit in Springsure

6. The Governor providing remarks on International Women’s Day in the RFDS Brisbane Hangar

From the Chair

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) Annual Report 2022/23 acknowledges the achievements of our organisation, highlights the enduring partnerships we hold with the community, our supporters and our partners and honours the dedication of our RFDS (Queensland Section) team.

This year marked 95 years of operation for the RFDS (Queensland Section) and, with that, the launch of a new five-year strategy, Towards 100, to guide the organisation to 100 years of operation in 2028.

Many projects and initiatives captured in this strategy are already underway, with the organisation working towards growth across five key areas of business –growth in our people, community, service delivery, innovation, and organisation.

This year we have continued to grow our services and, in turn, our team. We have expanded opportunities across our primary health care and telehealth spaces while celebrating 10 years of the RFDS Dental Service.

We are proud to have formalised a partnership with our colleagues at RFDS South Eastern Section, having collaborated for many years now. This joint venture organisation is known as RFDS Eastern Operations and has seen our Digital & Technology and Engineering departments partner to work effectively together. Our ambition is to improve the effectiveness and impact of our services and the outcomes for the people and communities we serve.

On behalf of the Board, I would like to recognise the enduring partnerships that make our work possible.

Thank you to Ergon Energy Retail, QCoal, Brisbane Airport Corporation, Woolworths, and Rio Tinto for providing continued support and much-needed funds to help keep our teams in the air, on the road and in the community to ensure we can provide the finest care to the furthest corner.

We are also grateful for the ongoing support we receive from the Commonwealth and State governments, local councils, our corporate partners, local businesses, dedicated fundraisers, regular donors and supporters who work with us to deliver

on our mission to connect regional, rural and remote communities to the finest healthcare and aeromedical services.

Last Financial Year, donations and bequests to the RFDS (Queensland Section) totalled $30.8 million, vital for our operations and acquiring assets. The financial report shows a surplus, which, combined with loans, will fund $79.5 million in capital commitments for aircraft, medical equipment, simulators, and facility upgrades in various locations.

To our team of doctors, nurses, mental health clinicians, dentists, pilots, engineers, and support staff, I thank you for your professionalism and commitment to the communities in which you work. By continuing to uphold the values of the RFDS in everything you do, you remain dedicated to improving health outcomes for all Queenslanders.

To my fellow Board members, as stewards of our organisation, I thank you for your continued collaboration and wise counsel. Thank you to Chief Executive Officer Meredith Staib for her leadership.

Over the past year, we have welcomed several new board members, including Associate Professor Catrina Felton-Busch, Adjunct Professor Sarah Pearson, Dr Sarah Springer, and Ivan Frkovic. Each of these directors brings with them a wealth of experience in a range of medical specialties. Welcome also to our new committee members.

As we work towards 100 years of operation, I look forward to seeing our services continue to grow and support more people in regional, rural and remote Queensland communities.

Russell Postle Chair RFDS (Queensland Section)

From the Chief Executive Officer

This year has been another momentous year for the RFDS (Queensland Section), and I am immensely proud of our contribution to improving the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders.

It is a privilege to work alongside such dedicated teams who continuously strive towards the common goal of improving health for those in regional, rural and remote parts of the state. I want to acknowledge the unwavering support of the Board, the leadership teams and the entire organisation, who have actively worked towards delivering the finest care to the furthest corners.

In January this year, we launched our new fiveyear strategy, which will take us to 100 years of operation. Below, and on the following page, you can see how we are working together on the growth of our people, our presence in the community, service delivery innovation and investment into the organisation.

Growth has always been important to the RFDS, so we need to continue pushing boundaries to achieve our vision to provide better health access and outcomes for people in the bush. Throughout the year, I had the privilege to visit our RFDS bases to witness firsthand the transformations happening in our aircraft and healthcare delivery.

This year marked the 10-year anniversary of our RFDS Dental Service. This significant milestone highlighted the need for dental care in rural and remote communities. We plan to expand this service to meet the demand and help more people who would otherwise need to travel long distances for these vital services.

When you, or someone you love, find themselves facing a medical emergency, every kilometre from care matters. This year we celebrated being the lead provider in delivering after-hours telehealth services across Cairns, Townsville and Mackay, with more than 23,900 telehealth consultations across the state. This is an incredible achievement and I am committed to exploring ways to expand telehealth services to help more people, no matter where they live.

Keeping in touch with our patients and the community is at the heart of what we do, which is why we are very grateful for our new partnership with Izuzu UTE Australia. This valuable partnership also means our RFDS Aeromedical Simulator can be driven to local schools, organisations and events to educate, promote and stay connected with the community.

A highlight for the organisation this year was the introduction of the second of our new Beechcraft King Air B360 aircraft in Brisbane, marking a significant milestone in our 10-year aircraft replacement strategy. Our new B360 aircraft, FDA and FDW, are operational, and we are actively training our pilot cohort. These new aircraft will reduce the manual workload for our crew and, most importantly, deliver superior transportation care for our patients. Witnessing the progress in incorporating these aircraft into our service is truly exciting.

The 2022/23 year also saw significant developments towards our key infrastructure projects. Construction for our Bundaberg Aviation Training Facility is quickly taking shape, which would not be possible without our long-standing partner, QCoal Foundation, and support from the Australian Government. The new facility will support better health outcomes for Queensland and provide sustainable economic benefits to the region. The RFDS continues to progress with base redevelopment projects in Brisbane and Mount Isa which will provide more advanced treatment and transfer facilities for patients.

To ensure we keep the Flying Doctor flying, we are continuously exploring ways to promote our commercial venture – Rescue Swag – further. This is an innovative first aid kit that was founded and designed in outback Queensland. All profits go directly towards the RFDS (Queensland Section) to secure our future.

A future that would not exist without support from our donors, volunteers, partners and the community. I want to thank our supporters sincerely – you are the backbone of our organisation. Your ongoing commitment will ensure we deliver the finest care for the next 100 years and beyond. And I thank you for your unwavering support.

Meredith Staib Chief Executive Officer RFDS (Queensland Section)

This five-year growth strategy represents the next stage of our Towards 100 journey. Together, we will stretch our wings and grow in five key areas.

Partnerships and collaboration

GROWTH IN OUR

RFDS (Queensland Section) 2023-2028 Strategy

GROWTH IN OUR

Safety and sustainability

Create the best, future-ready workplace and culture for our people to grow.

GROWTH IN OUR

People Organisation

Grow and invest in our organisation, operations and infrastructure.

Patients, families and community

Our

The furthest corner. The finest care.

Strengthen our presence, reputation and support at the heart of the communities we serve.

GROWTH IN OUR

Support the health and wellbeing of our communities anywhere, anytime.

GROWTH IN OUR

promise Community Service delivery Innovation

Embrace our culture of innovation to drive growth, create value and lead the future of virtual health delivery.

Equity, culture and diversity

Our vision

Better health access and outcomes for regional, rural and remote communities.

Our mission

Connecting regional, rural and remote communities to the finest healthcare and aeromedical services.

Our values

We live our brand promise and values every day.

Proud and passionate

Safety and quality Commercially astute Collaborative Open and transparent Mutual care and respect

‘Our journey is shared. Our spirit is strong’ Artwork by David Williams of Gilimbaa

Year in numbers — 2022/23

The RFDS continues to provide vital emergency medical and primary health care services to regional, rural and remote communities across Queensland.

MORE THAN 219

MORE THAN 3,500

MORE THAN 11,800 occasions of care across Queensland each day immunisations administered consultations conducted by headspace Cairns and RFDS mental health clinicians

MORE THAN 1,200

medical chests in rural and remote locations throughout Queensland

MORE THAN 12,500 MORE THAN 26,500 MORE THAN 23,900 MORE THAN 1,780

patients transferred via aeromedical service

consultations were conducted at RFDS GP and nurse clinics in Queensland

remote consultation calls through our telehealth service

consultations by our RFDS Dental Service

From the RFDS Foundation Chair

As the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) approaches its 100th anniversary, it’s more important than ever to invest in the future of the Flying Doctor and its services.

Many Queenslanders have experienced or know someone who has experienced life-saving healthcare or aeromedical support from the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

It’s a service that saves lives, reunites families, builds cultural connections and creates better health outcomes for people no matter where they live, work or travel.

The Flying Doctor has grown to become one of Australia’s most reputable charities for the eleventh year in a row, and its services would not be possible without the generosity of the community through fundraising efforts, donations and bequests.

That’s why it is vital for the RFDS Foundation to carefully manage these funds to continue delivering the finest care to the furthest corner.

Since its inception in 2018, the RFDS Foundation has supported the Flying Doctor in Queensland by annually investing in the organisation to enable:

• delivery of primary health care services, including additional allied health services

• investment in aircraft, infrastructure and airstrip upgrades

• utilisation of new technology and innovative service delivery platforms

• ongoing professional development of RFDS clinicians to support highquality patient care and future proof our workforce.

FY 2022/23 was another example of the tireless commitment of our supporters to work with us in our mission to keep the Flying Doctor flying for another 100 years and beyond.

Thanks to generous supporters, the RFDS Foundation has invested in a specialised Equine Mental Health Therapy program to improve health and wellbeing of Cape York communities. This valuable service aims to provide families and individuals who are struggling with mental health issues with life-saving services, no matter where they live.

Additionally, the RFDS Foundation is proud to continue its support for the RFDS Engineering Apprenticeship Program. The RFDS is currently training six apprentices and supporting four apprentices though the Licensed Engineer Aviation Program (LEAP). Investing in our people is vital if we want to grow as an organisation.

I would also like to send my sincere appreciation to those who choose to leave a lasting legacy through a gift in their Will. We are so grateful to those, like Maxine Godley, for their donations. These funds will be used to purchase aircraft and vital medical equipment needed to provide life-saving services to the people of Queensland.

Our patients and their families are the heart of everything we do, and I thank the community for supporting our purpose so we can continue delivering our life-saving services into the future.

I extend my gratitude to my fellow directors from the RFDS Foundation and to the RFDS (Queensland Section) Board and staff for their dedication to the people of Queensland.

Nigel Alexander Chair RFDS Foundation

A love for aviation leaves a lasting legacy

Former Air Hostess and current Volunteer Rural Firefighter supports the RFDS with a gift in Will.

Ever since Maxine Godley was a little girl, she has had a love for aviation.

As a child, her father taught her the names of aircraft, and she would ride her bike to the Perth Airport to watch them.

Her aviation career took flight in the early 1960s when Maxine worked as an Air Hostess with Ansett ANA and later worked in Sydney for Masling Air and on Rebel Air’s DC3 aircraft.

“I loved it all … the hostess family, the passengers, the fun, the hard work, but mostly the flying.

“Sitting in the cockpit for landing into Sydney with lights spread out below, listening to every command and response – what a buzz.

“I certainly wanted to fly.”

While Maxine enjoyed the ‘Hostie’ lifestyle, she knew she would learn how to fly.

Her inspiration came from Robin Miller, a commercial pilot from Perth who was locally known as the ‘Sugarbird Lady’.

“Robin was a triple certificated nursing sister who for over two years helped to facilitate a Government program to administer the Sabin oral polio vaccine program, dispensed in sugar lumps,” Maxine said.

“To undertake this program, Robin needed to purchase her own aircraft and she flew alone to the outlying and remote Kimberley and Pilbara areas of north west Western Australia – landing wherever she could and undertaking her own aircraft repairs when necessary.

“She was a pilot/nurse flying missions for the RFDS as a first responder – her equipment ready day or night.”

“I love to support the RFDS in a small way each year, but especially with a gift in my Will.”

Maxine Godley

It was not until later in life that Maxine experienced firsthand an aeromedical retrieval with the RFDS in remote Queensland.

“I never imagined, as a fit person, that I would ever need a medical trip,” she said.

“But after a terrible accident, I was loaded aboard a midnight flight from Mackay to Townsville.

“That’s when I thought it was time I considered some support for the RFDS.”

For the past 22 years, Maxine has volunteered as a Rural Firefighter, a first responder like Robin, while supporting the RFDS, for helping her and others.

“I love to support the RFDS in a small way each year, but especially with a gift in my Will,” Maxine said.

“Whether for emergencies, patient transfers or health clinics – we know the RFDS is there for us all in the regional and outback areas of our wide country.”

OUR SUPPORTERS | MAXINE GODLEY

A decade of smiles for Queensland communities

The RFDS Dental Service this year celebrated 10 years of putting smiles on the faces of rural and remote Queenslanders.

The service provides free dental care to Queenslanders living in rural and remote communities who may not otherwise have access to a dentist on a regular basis.

Since its launch in 2013, we have delivered more than 120,400 dental treatments in 26 communities!

RFDS (Queensland Section) Manager Oral Health Services Stevie Dilley said the service has provided the opportunity for rural and remote communities to understand the importance of oral health and how it impacts overall health outcomes.

“More and more, we are understanding the role that oral health plays in general health and how important it is,” Stevie said.

“Most communities we visit do not have any local dentists, so there would literally be no service for them if we weren’t here.

“It is the best job. You get to go into a community, get to feel a part of the community and you feel like you are doing meaningful work.”

Rachel from Tambo knows just how important the service is, not only to her family but also to the broader community.

“As a mother of two small children, the RFDS Dental Service is just great,” Rachel said.

“This year my kids, who are two and three, will be seeing the dentist for the first time.

“My partner and I have worked on cattle stations in remote Australia, and you have got young fellows that, you know, their teeth have rotted and half fallen out from poor dental hygiene and they are going to the Flying Doctor dental van.

“They return, and they have the whitest, shiniest teeth you could ever see, and you cannot wipe the smile off their face.

“It’s unreal to see that and the opportunity was there for them.”

The service provides a number of free services such as check-ups, x-rays and extractions, and treatment for existing conditions and gum disease while also providing referrals to specialists.

“It is the best job. You get to go into a community, get to feel a part of the community and you feel like you are doing meaningful work.”

Manager Oral Health Services

Stevie Dilley

New Mobile Dental Unit Livery

Through a partnership with a First Nations creative team, the RFDS (Queensland Section) Mobile Dental Unit was wrapped with artwork designed by David Williams.

As a proud Wakka Wakka artist and Co-Founder and Executive Director of Gilimbaa, David’s artwork shares the story of the RFDS in Queensland and features a narrative of heritage, culture, respect for country and connection.

Creative elements, such as the six ‘services’ in Sky Country pay tribute to not only traditional First Nations methods of navigating the stars, but how early pioneers of flight did so too. This is one of the ways the Flying Doctor is celebrating First Nations culture as part of its national Reconciliation Action Plan.

We acknowledge the support of QCoal Group, QCoal Foundation and the Australian Government in establishing the RFDS Dental Service in 2013.

The RFDS continues to be just a phone call away

The pedal radio, founded by Alfred Traeger in the 1920s, was just the beginning of telehealth services for the RFDS (Queensland Section).

Whether it be an aeromedical retrieval, the use of a medical chest or a GP consultation, the RFDS (Queensland Section) utilises telehealth to ensure we can continue to provide the finest care to the furthest corners of the state.

While it started with a pedal-operated generator to power a radio receiver, fast forward almost 100 years, and RFDS medical officers now provide a 24-hour medical consultation service via telephone and radio transmission.

In April 2023, the RFDS was announced as the lead telehealth provider for Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) to deliver after hours telehealth services across the Cairns, Townsville, and Mackay regions and the existing Torres and Cape regions.

The service supports patients with acute care needs who cannot wait for an in-hours GP service.

RFDS Chief Executive Officer Meredith Staib said telehealth services are critical to the very fabric of healthcare delivery and the Flying Doctor was proud to be supporting NQPHN in this increased capacity.

“Telehealth services support better access to specialists, facilitate earlier diagnosis for patients, and have also been proven to decrease the number of aeromedical retrievals and hospital admissions required,” Meredith said.

“There is a significant need for timely access to afterhours healthcare across our region and we are pleased to be working with RDFS to deliver this important service.”

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer

Ms Robin Whyte

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer Robin Whyte said RFDS had a strong track record in meeting the healthcare needs of local communities in North Queensland.

“There is a significant need for timely access to afterhours healthcare across our region and we are pleased to be working with RDFS to deliver this important service,” Robin said.

“RFDS had already been providing afterhours telehealth services in the Torres and Cape region, and was selected to expand their service across the Cairns and Hinterland, Townsville, and Mackay regions to ensure North Queenslanders in our catchment could access timely, safe, and high-quality afterhours primary health services.

“RFDS services vulnerable populations, such as First Nations communities and those living in rural and remote areas, which was a priority.”

Telehealth Lead, Dr Meg O’Connell said that “rural and remote patients usually have poor access to health services, worse health outcomes, less life expectancy, and more chronic disease.

“We can utilise telehealth so regional, rural and remote communities can have better access to health services, better life expectancy, better outcomes and more choice in health services.

“Some of our patients are so remote that to get to their closest clinic is a 10-hour drive, and it is really a tough drive which many of them only do twice a year.”

As we continue to expand services within the telehealth space, the RFDS remains committed to providing the finest care to the furthest corner.

“We are always going to have remote patients far away from us. How we connect with them, first and foremost, is through telehealth,” Meg said.

“Working in an ever-changing landscape with new and exciting technology means our service can continue to grow.”

Stretchers for a smoother transition

With the RFDS B360 aircraft becoming operational in December 2022, our patient-first focus has enabled the introduction of a new back-of-cabin fit out, featuring a powered stretcher system.

Each aircraft undergoes a state-of-the-art fit out to transform the back of cabin into a flying intensive care unit, and with this comes the implementation of a new integrated stretcher system. This is the first of its kind for a fixed-wing aircraft in Queensland.

The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) provided Stryker Power-PRO XT stretchers for use on all B360 aircraft.

“The new stretcher system provides a continuous comfortable journey for our patients and improves efficiency in their transfers without swapping stretcher systems, especially when exposed to inclement weather on the tarmacs,” State Manager − Aeromedical Nursing, Jacinta Jones said.

This advancement makes for a smoother transition when being transferred between facilities, our aircraft, and QAS vehicles, as the stretcher remains with the patient for the duration of their journey.

We look forward to seeing the implementation of the stretcher system continue with the rollout of the new aircraft fleet.

Sky high success

For Justine Powell, a visit to the RFDS Alice Springs Base as a young backpacker in 1989 lit the spark for a 22-year career with the Flying Doctor that, every day, confronts Australia’s tyranny of distance.

Today, as Nurse Manager - Aeromedical at the Brisbane Base, Justine remains passionate about the unique combination of aviation and medicine that RFDS offers as a career.

The RFDS patient-first commitment was behind the decision in late 2022 to conduct the Ambulance for inter-facility RFDS Retrievals (AIRR) trial in partnership with Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) and to appoint Justine to lead it.

The trial involved locating a dedicated QAS vehicle at the RFDS Brisbane Base, together with a Paramedic and a Flight Nurse, ready to transfer patients immediately between the base and Brisbane hospitals, on arrival of a retrieval flight or on return. Eliminating delay in this way proved very successful, with 196 patients transferred during the three-month trial.

The configuration of the dedicated ambulance also produced a significant improvement in efficiency. The ambulance has the capacity to quickly transfer up to two stretcher patients and two seated patients in any one trip.

“Eighty per cent of all RFDS flights are nurse only, so you have to be a resourceful ‘Jack of all trades’ and sufficiently confident in your skills to act autonomously,” she said.

“It is not like working in a hospital where you can just press a button, and help will come; it’s just you, using your skills, knowledge and experience to provide the best patient outcome.

“This means that being an RFDS nurse can be complex, but it is immensely satisfying to build bonds with communities and to work 24/7 with such supportive colleagues. It’s very real and meaningful work – and when you are treating patients in extremis, it really puts your own life and problems in perspective,” she said.

“Eighty per cent of all RFDS flights are nurse only, so you have to be a resourceful ‘Jack of all trades’ and sufficiently confident in your skills to act autonomously.”

Nurse Manager – Aeromedical

Justine Powell

Following the success of the trial, the model now continues utilising two paramedics with a dedicated inter-facility transfer vehicle. This vehicle will be maintained and serviced by QAS’s Metro North District. Encouragingly, the trial has inspired further discussion between QAS and Hospital and Health Services to explore options to introduce dedicated aeromedical retrieval ambulance vehicles in other regions.

RFDS on tour

Whether you pass it on the road or see it parked at a local school, the RFDS (Queensland Section) Simulator is certainly a head-turner – and it is lighting up the lives of Queenslanders in regional and remote communities.

Affectionately referred to as the Sim, this full-scale replica of a King Air B200 has been travelling around Queensland since early this year with Community Ambassadors Kym and John Warner, providing information and raising awareness of the Flying Doctor.

Through a multi-year national partnership with Isuzu UTE Australia, the Sim is towed by an Isuzu D-MAX, ensuring Kym, John and the Sim reach their destinations safely.

“They have already covered communities from metropolitan Brisbane to remote towns such as Kurumba and Cloncurry –and requests keep coming in from all over the state,” said RFDS Senior Community Advisor, Rebecca Savis.

Once the Sim is on site and the doors open, curious children flock to see inside the cockpit and the fuselage.

“Many of the children have never been in a plane before, so sitting in the cockpit in the Sim gives them the fantastic experience of strapping in, taking the controls, and pretending to see Australia’s remote inland from above as if they were actually in the pilot’s seat,” said Rebecca.

“They can also discover what is involved in caring for a seriously ill patient during an aeromedical retrieval because the fuselage is fully equipped with stretchers, communications and other equipment used daily by RFDS nurses and doctors.”

A Sim visit to a community provides a unique experience that is immersive and fun, but it also gives Kym and John the opportunity to share information about the history and services provided by the RFDS and increase awareness of the importance of continued public support for the Flying Doctor.

This is particularly relevant in metropolitan areas and large regional centres where it can be easy to forget that 38 per cent of all Queenslanders, and almost double that percentage of Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population, live in rural and remote areas.

(L-R) Isuzu MU-X & Isuzu D-MAX towing RFDS Simulator and Beechcraft King Air B360 aircraft

“When people living in rural and remote Queensland have a lower life expectancy, higher rates of obesity, and much higher rates of chronic mental illness than city dwellers, ongoing access to clinics and other primary health care services is vital. The Sim is helping us to spread that message,” said Rebecca.

Community Ambassadors Kym and John Warner with the Isuzu D-MAX towing RFDS Simulator

Navigating new heights: our new Townsville Senior Base Pilot

Newly appointed Townsville Senior Base Pilot, Catriona Saunders, has the unique qualities required to excel as a RFDS pilot, and she absolutely loves it!

Flying for the RFDS requires unique qualifications, skills and experience, including 4,000 hours of flying time, 200 hours of which have to be at night as Pilot in Command.

Catriona was ready for a fresh challenge after nearly eight years of flying small aircraft to service outback communities and stations in South Australia and the Northern Territory. Her application to join the RFDS in Alice Springs in 2019 was successful, and she remained there until late 2022.

At the start of this year, she relocated to Queensland and was appointed Senior Base Pilot in Townsville.

“I am really excited to be taking up the position of Senior Base Pilot,” she said.

“Working as a RFDS pilot is a job like no other, and while my new role comes with increased administrative responsibilities, I still have the privilege of flying the King Air B350 and B360 aeromedical aircraft and ensuring that Queenslanders have access to the best medical care.

“There is no other job for a pilot that requires such adaptability or offers so much diversity. You are part of the operational crew, so it is often ‘all hands on deck’ and you rarely know in advance where you will be flying to, whether it is a major airport, regional city or remote community, what weather conditions you will encounter, or what type of job you are going to.

“It is certainly never boring and while you are flying single-pilot and are ultimately responsible for your own decisions – and the consequences – you are really just a small cog in a big wheel and you have the support and backing of a highly skilled and dedicated team of professionals.

“That is pretty unique and a reminder of the core value that unites everyone in the RFDS –we all know, for the patient we are picking up, this might be the worst day of their life, but our job is to make that day a little better and brighter. We never lose sight of that.”

“There is no other job for a pilot that requires such adaptability or offers so much diversity.”

Townsville Senior Base Pilot

Catriona Saunders

Helping new ideas take flight

Building on our rich history of innovation, the Traeger Innovation Hub is an initiative to support innovation, creativity, and growth across the organisation while investing in the future of RFDS.

The initiative celebrates the revolutionary thinking of the RFDS who commissioned inventor Alfred Traeger to develop a pedal-powered radio back in the 1920s. This innovation was used by people in the bush and allowed them to communicate with the Aerial Medical Service, later known as the RFDS.

The Hub plays a key role in supporting our strategy for future growth while harnessing the immense knowledge and creativity within the organisation to advance our vision for the future and assist us to continue delivering the finest care to the furthest corner.

Multiple proposals have been submitted over the past year, and each evaluated for viability with two of the innovative ideas progressing through to trial stages to evaluate their effectiveness.

Drug label stickers

Working in the confines of a small aircraft has its unique challenges, which our nursing and clinical staff face daily.

When administering medications multiple times during flight to multiple patients, it is important that our crew can easily identify and label the correct medications.

A new drug label sticker booklet has been developed to assist in alleviating any issues arising from the labelling of medication and help improve efficiencies for crew while in flight.

In Air Distraction Therapy

With many people finding flying difficult and stressful, being able to offer patients a distraction while in flight could make for a more comfortable journey.

Through the proposed purchase and distribution of iPads and noise-cancelling headphones, the opportunity for patients to be offered a visual distraction device will assist in reducing stress.

This innovation embraces new tools and technologies while improving patient care and experiences.

Caring for children in remote communities

Our primary health care nurses are passionate about healthy growth and development in children, and have been invited to regularly visit a new primary child health clinic at Bidunggu, an Indigenous community outside Gregory in Far North Queensland.

Little Shanaya looks at the bright slice of watermelon which has just been handed to her by RFDS Primary Health Care (PHC) Nurse Lesley Mallard; she turns and giggles at her friends.

Curiously she takes a small bite, looks up at Lesley and smiles. This was the first time she had tried watermelon, a fruit that most children would not have access to in her community.

Shanaya is among the many children our Primary Health Care team regularly visits at the new Bidunggu Primary Child Health Clinic.

Each fortnight Lesley, or one of our other clinicians, meets with a group of young children and their families with fresh fruit donated from our Principal Partner, Woolworths as part of their Free Fruit for Kids Program.

While the children enjoy eating various fresh foods, Lesley conducts important child health checks, educates families about healthy nutrition and supports any health concerns.

“This is what primary health care is all about – we are trying to provide the right care and education to have a positive effect on children’s lives,” Lesley said.

“These visits stop them from developing problems later on by treating skin infections, ensuring they have had immunisations and by providing education for good nutrition and healthy lifestyles.”

Families like those living in Bidunggu are hugely disadvantaged by distance. Children have to travel more than an hour each way to go to school or access a remote shop that sells basic supplies, and the nearest clinic is an hour drive away.

“We really are the only service for a lot of people in these locations, which is why we always try to provide a broad, holistic service,” Lesley said.

“If someone comes to see us we try to do as much as we can for them in their community –that means we offer screening, assessment, investigations, we bring their medications from

a pharmacy, we collect their pathology, we provide help with appointments and travel, chronic disease care coordination, education, counselling and health planning.

“If we can streamline someone’s healthcare – we try to do it.

“Good chronic disease care and prevention means that people are less likely to need specialist appointments or emergency retrievals – that is good healthcare.

“It is such a privilege for us to be invited into these communities and we are lucky to have such a motivated PHC team who share a passion for remote area health and child health.”

In the 2022/23 Financial Year, the RFDS delivered more than 26,500 primary health care consultations across the state.

Skin clinics take off in Outback Queensland

The more remote you get, the greater the challenge of accessing medical services becomes.

This is why the RFDS strives to provide more healthcare services to where people live.

For many who live in rural and remote Queensland communities, their nearest doctor, let alone specialist dermatologist, is hundreds of kilometers away.

In conjunction with the primary health care team at RFDS Charleville Base, Dr Stephen Andrews is a Dermatologist who periodically flies in and out of locations across south-western regional Queensland, conducting clinics that offer skin cancer surveillance and management.

“The program I am involved in was previously provided primarily by Dr Jon Outridge, a highly experienced rural general practitioner with an interest in the detection and treatment of skin cancer,” Stephen said.

“I was offered the opportunity to continue some of Dr Outridge’s valuable work, joining Charleville RFDS’s small, but very skilled team of rural general practitioners, to help see patients in remote areas seeking skin cancer surveillance.

“To a certain degree, it feels like I have come full-circle in that I undertook three fantastic student medical rotations a decade ago at the RFDS Charleville Base, and that gave me the chance to meet many

members of the team who are still here today, and I am privileged to now consider them colleagues.”

Dr Andrews is committed to providing a similar rural experience for vocational trainees in Dermatology, with the aim that when they finish their specialty training, they might consider outreach work as part of their service to our community.

A dermatology registrar from the Queensland Institute of Dermatology accompanies Dr Andrews and the RFDS team on their outreach skin clinics, not only to assist, but to expose them to the rewards, and challenges, of remote healthcare delivery.

“There are great benefits for both organisations working collaboratively in this field,” he said.

“Being part of a multi-disciplinary team, such as at the RFDS Charleville Base, is rewarding in that as clinicians, we can share experiences and educate each other, ultimately for the benefit of our patients.”

We look forward to seeing further success from the implementation of this service.

“There are great benefits for both organisations working collaboratively in the Dermatology field.”

Medical Officer – Dermatologist

Dr Stephen Andrews

A greener RFDS

The world’s climate is shifting, and Queensland is no exception.

The Department of Environment and Science states that “adaptation action is essential for the continued prosperity of our communities, environment, and economy.”

The RFDS is entrenched in regional, rural and remote Queensland communities, and we have seen the impact of increased heatwaves, fires, droughts and floods that have devastated the state.

We are committed to being an environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient organisation and have taken steps to create a climate master plan and sustainability strategy to help us move into the future of a changing world.

In 2022, the RFDS achieved accreditation to the Environmental management certification ISO14001, and in June 2023 passed the surveillance audit with zero non-conformances.

After the accreditation was achieved, the RFDS engaged consultants, Climate Policy Research (CPR), and Umwelt to commence a gap analysis to further understand the needs of the organisation in a changing climatic environment.

All RFDS staff were surveyed on their carbon footprint, and the Brisbane Base was visited to understand operational demands.

Consulting firm, Carbon Neutral then provided the RFDS with a carbon footprint report in June 2023 to help us baseline our GHG

emissions which will help inform future investigations to reduce and/ or offset our emissions.

“The RFDS is excited to embrace new ways of working that can positively contribute to the environment and our communities,” said CEO, Meredith Staib.

“As we move towards 100, we will utilise new technologies and advancement with a look to build an even more sustainably green organisation.”

Looking forward, climate projections and research will be presented to the RFDS (Queensland Section) Board with challenges and opportunities over the next 10 years, to create and implement the most efficient and evidence-based strategies.

“The RFDS is excited to embrace new ways of working that can positively contribute to the environment and our communities.”

CEO, Meredith Staib

To the Rescue (Swag)

Queenslanders love adventure, whether it is living in the outback, or planning an off-grid exploration.

In 2022, the RFDS joined forces with Rescue Swag after identifying a need for a durable, compact and portable first aid kit for all situations.

Since joining the RFDS family, Rescue Swag has evolved and now offers a range of kits fully equipped with high quality safety supplies to treat burns, snakebites, jellyfish stings, hiking falls and riding accidents – as well as your everyday first aid needs.

Plus, all profits go to the RFDS (Queensland Section) to deliver vital healthcare and services to people in regional, rural and remote communities.

In February 2023, Rescue Swag launched the Outback Explorer Competition calling all outdoor enthusiasts and content creators to showcase their love for the great outdoors.

Entrants were encouraged to capture and share their experiences of Australia’s diverse landscapes with the winner chosen for their strengths in creativity and entertainment.

The competition was a huge success and saw hundreds of creative videos submitted showcasing the best of Australia and the work of the RFDS in the outback.

We were proud to award a young family from Cairns as the winner with a $10,000 prize plus an Adventurer Rescue Swag first aid kit.

“As a paramedic, I personally don’t like to go anywhere without a first aid kit”

QAS Paramedic and university lecturer – Rosie

Rosie (a QAS Paramedic and university lecturer), her husband Terry (an Airport Firefighter) and their two girls, Emily and Riley, spend most of their free time travelling to distant parts of Australia with their camper trailer and were thrilled to claim the prize.

Rosie always wanted to own a Rescue Swag and thought it would be a great first aid kit to bring on their travels.

“As a paramedic, I personally don’t like to go anywhere without a first aid kit,” Rosie said.

“Our kids love climbing trees, rock hopping, chasing waterfalls, bushwalking – first aid is essential.

“We are so humbled by this and the generosity of Rescue Swag and RFDS.”

Rescue Swag is now available online and from retailers within Australia.

Scan the code and order your Rescue Swag online.

Our fleet

The addition of the new Beechcraft King Air B360 aircraft takes the fleet to 22 aeromedical aircraft servicing Queensland with an additional two in fit out stage and another three on order.

King Air B200 and B200C

Number in fleet: 16

Maximum altitude: 35,000ft

Maximum speed: 278 knots (515kph)

Range: 2,700km

Cabin dimensions: 1.38m wide, 6.7m long, 1.46m high

King Air B350CHW

Number in fleet: 4

Maximum altitude: 35,000ft

Maximum speed: 305 knots (565kph)

Range: 3,345km

Cabin dimensions: 1.24m wide, 7.56m long, 1.45m high

King Air B360

Number in fleet: 2

Maximum altitude: 35,000ft

Maximum speed: 325 knots (578kph)

Range: 3,345km

Cabin dimensions: 1.24m wide, 7.6m long, 1.45m high

VH-FDI

VH-FDS

Aeromedical Locations we travelled to within Queensland

From childhood dreams to RFDS wings

As a boy, Michael Urquhart was fascinated with planes and clouds and still vividly remembers his first flight at the age of nine in a Piper Cherokee at Hervey Bay. Today, he is the RFDS Flight Standards Pilot in Bundaberg, responsible for the induction of new RFDS pilots and for their ongoing training and certification.

Michael’s childhood passion for aviation led him to join the Air Cadets and to sign up for his first lesson with a flying school at Archerfield in 2006. Since then, armed with university studies in maths and physics and excellent aviation skills, his career has covered the spectrum from aerobatics and charter flights to work as a safety officer and trainer, and clients ranging from tourists to skydivers.

His career has also taken him to locations as varied and different as Queensland’s Darling Downs, Karratha in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, and William Creek on the remote Oodnadatta Track in South Australia.

That skill set and breadth of experience, together with adaptability, proved invaluable in preparation for work as a RFDS pilot when he joined the Service in 2017.

“When you land on an airstrip in the bush for an aeromedical retrieval, there are no markings to guide you – you have to rely on your training, skills and experience to get the best possible outcome for the patient,” said Michael.

“But the great thing about RFDS is that you have the backing of a large, highly skilled team. It might only be you and the nurse or doctor in the plane, but everyone involved in a retrieval, from the engineers to the communications and aeromedical staff back at the base, is committed and ready to adapt to the constantly changing environment we work in.

“I may have the qualifications and experience to work with any airline in the world, but working for the RFDS provides me the opportunity to do the best that I can as a pilot and as a person. When I go to work, I know that what I do matters to someone, and that drives me to be better in everything I do,” he said.

WHO WE ARE | MICHAEL URQUHART – FLIGHT STANDARDS PILOT, BUNDABERG BASE

Building foundations for the future

INFRASTRUCTURE

As the RFDS continues towards 100 years of operation, a focus remains on ensuring the foundations are laid now to continue providing the finest care to the furthest corners of the state for years to come.

The continued investment in our future is made possible thanks to joint funding from all levels of government, corporate partners, and individual donations.

The infrastructure strategy aims to improve our training capabilities and facilities while ensuring we have advanced, fit-for-purpose treatment and transfer facilities.

Brisbane Aeromedical Base

The RFDS Brisbane Aeromedical Base will act as a medical gateway to assist patients needing urgent medical care.

The new base will be part of the Queensland Regional Aeromedical Hub, supported by the Queensland Government, where patients can be moved onto or off aeromedical aircraft out of the elements and in a world-class clinical environment. The RFDS Brisbane Aeromedical Base is set to see sod turned in early 2024.

The Queensland Regional Aeromedical Hub will also accommodate Retrieval Services Queensland (RSQ), LifeFlight Australia and Queensland Government Airwing (QGAir).

Bundaberg Aviation Training Facility

The new facility will include a full motion, Beechcraft King Air Fusion Full Flight B 260/350/360 Simulator – the first of its kind in Australia – which will train our pilots to be proficient in the RFDS Beechcraft King Air aircraft fleet.

Construction has commenced, with the build 50 per cent complete at the end of June 2023.

The $25.3 million facility has been supported by $14.9 million from the Australian Government, a $3 million contribution from QCoal Foundation, and donors supporting the project. Bundaberg Regional Council donated the land for the facility.

Mount Isa Base

The redevelopment of the Mount Isa Base will include four dedicated hangar bays, improved maintenance, and patient transfer facilities.

The project has received $9.7 million in funding from the Building Better Regions Fund and an additional $6.9 million from the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund.

The North Australian Pastoral Company (NAPCo) and Stanbroke have generously contributed, alongside numerous individuals, small businesses, and local community fundraisers to help build the new facility.

It is expected that the project will be completed in early 2025.

Taking the LEAP

ENGINEERING

The RFDS’s engineering section in Queensland is leading the way with an innovative program to deliver the next generation of licensed aircraft maintenance engineers and, at the same time, address an Australia-wide skill shortage.

The Licensed Engineers in Aviation Program (LEAP) is a three-year sustainability plan launched by RFDS (Queensland Section) in January 2023 with the aim of producing an uninterrupted pipeline of qualified personnel who can replace retiring engineers and enable RFDS to maintain its increasingly sophisticated fleet of aircraft.

“It is critical that we take this step now,” said RFDS General Manager Engineering, Adam Clegg.

“The average age of a licensed aviation engineer in Australia is currently over 55 and, within RFDS more than a third of our engineers are over 60. When only 11 per cent of our licensed engineers are under the age of 40, we need to invest in producing younger engineers.”

With the support of sponsors and donors, LEAP was developed as the solution.

“The traditional approach to producing engineers has been through apprenticeship, and this program continues, with a total of six apprentices currently undertaking their four-year Certificate IV in aircraft maintenance in Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane,” said Adam.

“The great strategic advantage of LEAP is that it offers two new streams that enable experienced civilian and military engineers to transition to Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers with RFDS within two years.”

General Manager Engineering – Adam Clegg

“The challenge is that they will require at least a further two years to become Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and that is a very distant horizon for a young apprentice.”

The great strategic advantage of LEAP is that it offers two new streams that enable experienced civilian and military engineers to transition to Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers with RFDS within two years.

The offer of supported study and a permanent full-time position after just two years attracted an exceptionally strong field of applicants for the first intake, with two ex-military licensed engineers and two aircraft maintenance engineers selected for the inaugural cohort.

“This is particularly important at the moment because we have taken delivery of three B360s, and by May next year, we will have a total of seven in our fleet as our Beechcraft King Air B200 and B350 aircraft are progressively replaced,” said Adam.

“One of the most important results of LEAP is that, as well as lowering the average age of our engineering personnel, it will reduce pressure on our current engineers and enable us to get licensed engineers out into regional centres where they are vital to RFDS operations. Out there, they quickly understand the commitment to helping people that drive this organisation.”

Engineering greatness

WHO WE ARE | DAMIEN

BENNETTO

– BASE MAINTENANCE

MANAGER

BRISBANE BASE

Whether it is repairing an aircraft on a remote airstrip after a bird strike or overseeing maintenance of one of the new King Air B360s at our Brisbane Base, the work of an RFDS engineer is always varied and unpredictable.

It is that variety and unpredictability that first attracted Damien Bennetto to the Service.

Already familiar with the RFDS Beechcraft King Air fleet from his time as an avionics Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (LAME) with Hawker Pacific, Damien successfully transitioned to RFDS in Townsville when maintenance was taken in-house in 2020. Within a year, he had become Townsville’s Senior Base Engineer and, in May 2023, was appointed as Base Maintenance Manager in Brisbane.

Damien has taken that rapid career development in his stride, adapting quickly to the change.

As Townsville and Brisbane are the only two heavy maintenance bases in Queensland, his responsibilities as Senior Base Engineer in Townsville involved managing and conducting maintenance checks, rectifying line defects, and ensuring the supply of necessary parts and tooling. It was a job that still

“I am passionate about the work we do because we keep the aircraft online, enabling the frontline workers to continue to save lives.”

Damien Bennetto

enabled him to spend 70 per cent of his time ‘on the tools’.

In his new role in Brisbane, there is less time in the workshop, but great satisfaction in successfully planning and carrying out maintenance checks and repairs.

“You really don’t know what you will find when an aircraft comes in for its scheduled check or when a defect is reported,” he said.

“You could find unexpected structural damage that requires an engineering order to repair or, on occasion, complete part replacement – you just have to be prepared and ensure that you have the staff, equipment and tools available to solve problems as quickly as possible.”

Damien’s job today is a long way from what he envisaged two decades ago when he began his course at the RAAF School of Technical Training, but his interest in the electrical, instrument and radio systems in aircraft has remained a constant and, like many other Australian Army veterans employed by RFDS, he values working closely with a trusted team.

Damien’s sense of responsibility has also been a constant.

“From signing off on a task when I was a young LAME to putting my signature on a final certification today, I am passionate about the work we do because we keep the aircraft online, enabling the frontline workers to continue to save lives,” he said.

Primary Health Care locations

Primary Health Care delivery for rural and remote communities

PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Providing care to regional, rural and remote Queenslanders is at the heart of what we do at the RFDS.

Held on a regular basis, crews fly into communities and deliver primary health care (PHC) clinics for people who would otherwise be required to drive hundreds of kilometres to seek medical support.

The PHC clinics are delivered by multi-disciplinary teams which include general practitioners, nurse practitioners, nurses, mental health and allied health professionals.

For Eulo residents, the RFDS PHC clinics are invaluable, with their nearest doctor and hospital more than 90 minutes away.

Nan Pike, a long-time resident of the town, explained just how important the services are, with the RFDS having serviced the Eulo community for many years now.

“The PHC clinics are vital to Eulo and the surrounding district because without these clinics, a round trip of 140km to Cunnamulla would be required to see the nearest doctor and visit the closest hospital,” Nan said.

“We are a community made up of young children, both preschool age and school age, young adults, and mature residents, so knowing we have RFDS available through PHC clinics and 24/7 via phone is very reassuring for us.”

The PHC teams provide a range of clinical services to the Eulo community.

“All the services offered by the RFDS are not otherwise available in Eulo,” she said.

“The allied health services of podiatrists, physiotherapists and chronic disease specialists are very much needed and very well utilised.

“We are also appreciative of the skin clinics, and I feel that the participation rate speaks volumes because the service is ongoing.

“When a patient needs to be referred for specialist attention in a bigger city, the help provided by the RFDS staff in obtaining these appointments is wonderful, and nothing is too much trouble.”

With an understanding of just how important the clinics are, Nan volunteers her time to assist the RFDS crews in getting to the clinic from the airstrip and making them feel right at home.

“We are a community made up of young children, both preschool age and school age, young adults, and mature residents, so knowing we have RFDS available through PHC clinics and 24/7 via phone is very reassuring for us.”

Eulo resident – Nan Pike

“My role is to ensure that the visiting RFDS staff are looked after on the clinic day, and so we work on a roster system,” she said.

“The Eulo community is always pleased to do their bit by collecting the crew on the day, transporting them to the clinic and making sure they have food available.

“We always have the clinic rooms clean and appealing. I just make sure it happens and do what is required.”

We are continuing to work with communities to deliver clinics and ensure better health outcomes for those living in rural and remote Queensland.

Mental Health Service supports rural and remote communities

MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING

The RFDS (Queensland Section) is dedicated to providing mental health services to many regional, rural and remote Queensland.

With a focus on meeting the psychological needs of some of the most isolated people in Australia, our mental health teams deliver services to people experiencing mental health concerns.

The RFDS Mental Health Service is unique as individuals and service providers can obtain help through our 24/7 telehealth service. This service ensures our teams are always available to provide appropriate emergency medical assistance.

Operating across the state, our mental health program consists of several services, including:

• Central West and Outback Mental Health and Wellbeing Service

• Drought Wellbeing Service

• Employee Assistance Programs

• Far North Mental Health and Wellbeing Services

• headspace Cairns

“After more than a decade of service delivery, the RFDS Central West & Outback Mental Health still has a strong presence in the Central West, which highlights how important the service is to the region. Having the Wellbeing Out West program as part of the service, allows and supports the delivery of the RFDS service to be adaptable to the changing challenges faced by the communities and those that are part of them.”

Mental Health and Wellbeing Promotion Coordinator (Outback Mental Health)

Elizabeth Lynch

A previous mental health client expressed that fortnightly visits from mental health clinicians have helped them to maintain good mental health.

“I’ve battled with severe depression and anxiety for over 10 years, and I have had extremely traumatic experiences with previous psychologists as a teenager and never thought I would have the courage to ask for help again,” they said.

“The RFDS mental health service has saved my life.

“I am forever grateful to the incredible mental health team and cannot thank them enough for the tremendous efforts they put in to help pull me from the dark place I was in and continue to keep me afloat.”

They said access to mental health programs is vital to rural and remote towns, ensuring people in the community can access support when they need it.

“RFDS mental health services are extremely important, as having this service provides the opportunity for people to come forward and ask for help,” they said.

“Living so remotely always has challenging factors and limited resources for people that have daily battles and struggles.

“While reaching out and asking for help may seem daunting and very overwhelming, it only gets easier after that first conversation.”

They said the team are very caring and nurturing, ensuring you feel safe within their program.

Young people accessing support through headspace

The RFDS continue to be the lead agency for headspace Cairns, a service which is responsible for the provision of youth mental health and counselling services in the region.

The service provides support for young people aged between 12 and 25 across a board range of concerns.

All programs are at no cost to the client and, on the few occasions where a referral is required, our mental health clinicians will support the client through this process.

“When meeting with a mental health clinician, they make sure you are comfortable and in a safe environment where you can engage with them on your terms,” they said.

“If I didn’t feel comfortable attending the clinic, they would change the setting and scenery for me to be in the safest environment possible.

“They are always reassuring and reminding me that at any point in time that if I feel I can’t cope, they will be there to help.

“The Royal Flying Doctor Service is my hero.”

These programs are organised with support from the Government and primary health networks, as well as generous donations from organisations such as RideWest.

headspace Senior Mental Health Clinician, Sara Cottew said the service is important in providing support to young people in the community who may otherwise not have the opportunity to access help when they need it.

“headspace offers many different pathways into the service and accepts referrals from many sources,” Sara said.

“It is adolescent specific so young people generally feel more comfortable coming into the service centre through outreach programs – headspace is a recognised service among young people, their families and the wider community.”

Through her role, Sara is proud to help make a positive difference in the lives of young people.

“Helping to support improved mental health in young people helps them to function better, feel more connected and able to engage with the wider community on a meaningful level which reaps benefits for all,” she said.

“I love the multi-disciplinary teams, the client group and the flexibility that headspace offers.”

headspace Cairns continues to provide commitment to rural service delivery an outreach service to rural and remote surrounding areas.

Mending minds in rural and remote Queensland

WE ARE | JOSEPH OUI – RECOGNISED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELLOR, CAIRNS BASE

The RFDS was a household name for Joseph Oui as a child growing up in Kuranda and visiting extended family living in Cape York communities. Now, as a RFDS Recognised Mental Health Counsellor based in Cairns, he is working with many of those communities to improve mental health and overcome the disadvantages of life in remote and very remote parts of Queensland.

RFDS research conducted Australia-wide in 2017 identified improving social and emotional wellbeing as a priority in remote Indigenous communities. Indigenous Australians, especially young men, are significantly more likely than non-Indigenous Australians to be hospitalised or die early from mental health related illnesses.

Poor service access, distance, cost, and reluctance to seek help have all contributed to this, but thanks to funding from Governments, PHN’s and donors, RFDS is able to provide a range of mental health services including fly-in fly-out clinics, 24-hour telehealth services, and aeromedical transfers for those requiring acute care.

“Many Indigenous men and women will shy away from mainstream organisations, so observing cultural protocols is an important part of implementing any program, even as a First Nations man.

“It’s a beautiful place to work, you get to meet wonderful and amazing people, and they’re very accepting of who you are, once you’ve built a relationship. Who wouldn’t like working in these communities?”

Joseph Oui

“If I go onto someone else’s Country, I have to seek permission from Elders and adhere to their cultural protocols. I’ve now built a strong, respectful relationship with the communities where I have lived and worked in the Cape and am trusted and accepted. It is a real privilege to be acknowledged this way,” he said.

“That makes it much easier for me, as a clinician, to create a culturally safe space which is open and welcoming,” said Joseph.

Through group discussions with men in Cape York communities as well as liaising with support agencies such as Queensland Health and providing individual counselling, ongoing support and community education, Joseph is having a positive impact on the lives in the communities he visits.

“The experience of working in these remote communities is very rewarding,” he said.

“It’s a beautiful place to work, you get to meet wonderful and amazing people, and they’re very accepting of who you are, once you’ve built a relationship. Who wouldn’t like working in these communities? You might even get to go fishing!” he said.

WHO

Serving remote communities on the road

WHO WE ARE | LYNLEE TATNELL SENIOR DENTIST

A self-styled ‘country kid’ and a second-generation dentist, Lynlee grew up in Rockhampton and studied at James Cook University in Cairns.

“I became a dentist to care for people and only ever wanted to work in regional or remote Queensland,” she said.

“I feel a great affinity with the people living in the bush, so working for the RFDS is my ideal career.”

Lynlee travels to regional centres behind the purposebuilt RFDS mobile dental unit. Once it rolls into town, Lynlee and her team remain in the community for one or two weeks.

“Staying in each centre for an extended time means we become part of the community,” she said.

“People get to know us and will even pop in to look around our amazing facilities on board.”

Those facilities include two fully-equipped surgeries including an OPG (orthopantomogram) which enables patients to have full X-ray scans of the upper and lower jaw without the expense and inconvenience of travelling hundreds of kilometres to a major centre for diagnosis and treatment.

“Dentistry is not just about teeth.”

Helping Queenslanders to overcome that barrier of isolation has been central to the goals of the RFDS Dental Service since it was launched a decade ago. With over 8,000 patients treated in 21 communities in the initial four-year trial, the need was clear, and the service has continued to grow in response.

“Dentistry is not just about teeth,” said Lynlee.

“We are here to make a difference and have been very pleased to see a statistical trend towards preventive care. Providing advice, treating patients holistically, even checking for evidence of other health problems in soft tissue in the mouth, all contribute to that trend. It is very satisfying to be doing good things for good people.”

RFDS doctors sparking health transformation in rural Queensland

WE ARE | TOM BATTISSON – PRIMARY HEALTH CARE DOCTOR, CAIRNS BASE

There is no such thing as a typical day for a RFDS Primary Health Care Doctor, but every day brings the satisfaction of making a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities in rural and remote Queensland.

“It is rarely a case of A+B=C in primary care medicine with the RFDS,” said Dr Tom Battisson.

“Every day presents a fresh challenge of getting to our patients, understanding their needs, and providing appropriate care.”

From the Cairns Base, primary health care teams fly into Cape York communities such as Lockhart River and Coen, Gulf coast communities like Pormpuraaw and Kowanyama, as well as remote western towns like Pentland and Croydon.

It is a challenge, but that is what RFDS staff love about their work, and they are passionate advocates for providing healthcare services to communities that may otherwise go without.

“Every vaccination we administer, every health education program we deliver, every consultation we have about a chronic condition like diabetes or heart disease … everything we do in primary health care makes a difference, however small it may

“In primary care, little things really matter.”

Tom Battisson

seem, because it reduces the consequences for the patient and the need for complicated and expensive secondary care,” said Tom.

“In primary care, little things really matter.”

The expertise RFDS has developed in delivering primary health care to remote locations has earned an international reputation for excellence and innovation.

Regular fly-in fly-out clinics in Indigenous communities in the region have been vital to building trust and ensuring that people have access to accurate information and appropriate care. Each clinic is tailored to the needs of the particular community, with primary health care personnel typically overnighting in the communities to provide three full days per week of consultations and health education.

WHO

Conquering disease in outback Queensland

WHO WE ARE | SUE TORNEY – PRIMARY HEALTH CARE NURSE, CAIRNS BASE

When Sue Torney joined the RFDS team as a Primary Health Care Nurse in March this year, she brought not only her extensive experience as an Indigenous health worker and rural emergency nurse, but a passion for making a difference to the lives of Queenslanders living in the remote north.

That passion has been channelled particularly into a program to combat rheumatic heart disease in Kowanyama, a remote coastal community of 1,600 people in the Gulf of Carpentaria, more than seven hours by road from Cairns.

“Rheumatic heart disease is preventable and was largely eliminated elsewhere in Australia more than half a century ago,” said Sue.

“But young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people today have the highest rates of acute rheumatic fever in the world.”

The high rate throughout the region is due to crowded living environments and inadequate access to hygiene basics such as running water and refrigeration in some communities. Under these conditions, skin and throat infections can quickly become rheumatic fever which in turn damages heart valves and can lead to heart failure and death.

Sue’s regular visits to the community to conduct culturally appropriate clinics have already built a strong foundation of community trust.

“Because I spent a decade as an Indigenous health worker, I have been able to develop trusting, collaborative relationships with those working in Kowanyama today,” said Sue.

“My 11 years as a rural emergency nurse has also given me a thorough understanding of the issues that confront them. When they are so remote and don’t have access to adequate resources or facilities, the RFDS offers them hope that they can achieve better health for the community and the tools to reach that goal.”

“The bonus of my regular visits to conduct clinics and work alongside them is that it has given me an opportunity to mentor younger health workers and encourage them to pursue further study or a career in nursing. It is a positive outcome for everyone.”

Helping Queenslanders in more ways than one

Our primary health care (PHC) team continue to expand their services outside of clinics by delivering RFDS Field Days across the state.

When you live in the outback, and your closest clinic is hours away from home, basic health checks can easily become overlooked or hard to access.

To ensure rural and remote Queenslanders can access healthcare, our primary health care staff travel to a number of stations to deliver services outside of the clinic and within the community.

Each Field Day is specifically designed to meet the community’s needs offering primary and mental health services, basic first aid including basic life support, how to respond to emergencies, how to contact the RFDS and how to prepare for emergency evacuations from their location.

Participants are also offered education on the RFDS Medical Chest, contacting RFDS telehealth services for non-emergency healthcare, and maintaining their private airstrip for emergency landings.

The RFDS PHC team offer a range of vaccinations, including yearly flu vaccines, Q fever, and the recommended national immunisation program for children and adults.

Additionally, they offer a wide range of health promotional and prevention interventions.

This year the RFDS has responded to community requests for Field Days and Q fever programs across a number of sites, including The Pinnacles, The Brook, Merepah, Donors Hill, Gilberton, Werrington and Dunbar Stations.

RFDS Primary Health Care Nurse Leanna Murray manages the program and occasionally invites guest clinicians and School of Distance Education teachers to attend.

“Field Days are designed to inform, discuss and create awareness of particular health issues and offer opportunities for people to access these services,” Leanna said.

Charleville Base Nurse Manager Jo Mahony has been conducting Field Days for more than 20 years and said no two days are the same.

“It is an entirely different experience seeing someone in the community as opposed to seeing them in a clinic,” Jo said.

“Patients are happier to talk to you about their health or mental wellbeing as it is a much more relaxed setting and I think they really appreciate us coming out to them to check if they are ok.

“That is the beauty of primary health care – you take it to people.”

“Field Days are designed to inform, discuss and create awareness of particular health issues and offer opportunities for people to access these services.”

Primary Health Care Nurse –Leanna Murray

“That is the beauty of primary health care –you take it to people.”

Charleville Base Nurse Manager – Jo Mahony

Jo described Field Days as a lovely complement to aeromedical retrievals.

“It is rewarding knowing you have been able to educate people before a traumatic event occurs so that they are better prepared,” she said.

“We can then go back after the event and check in to make sure everyone is ok.

“In the outback nothing ever happens to just one person, there is always a ripple effect in the community.

“The nice thing about Field Days is that we can provide everyone with the same services and create a support network.”

Helping mothers in the outback

CHILD AND FAMILY HEALTH

The RFDS primary health care team of midwives, primary health care nurses and doctors recognise the importance of the first 2,000 days of a child’s life and offer a seamless transition of care from preconception, throughout pregnancy, postnatal and early childhood services.

Mount Surprise mum Kate and her husband Sam grew up on a cattle station and always dreamed of raising their kids in the bush, regardless of the challenges.

Their five children, Mack (7), Bella (5), Percy (4), Beau (2) and Daisy (six months old), were born and bred in rural and remote towns receiving healthcare from our RFDS primary health care clinic in Georgetown.

For Kate, the biggest challenge has always been distance, with their closest hospital or grocery store at Atherton, a two-and-half-hour drive from home. So, when things go wrong, it’s reassuring to know they can call on the Flying Doctor.

Throughout Kate’s pregnancies and births, the RFDS has been there to support their family and their health needs.

“I did shared care with the RFDS in Georgetown which was just over an hour drive compared to a six-hour drive to Townsville,” Kate said.

“This made life so much easier because I didn’t have to travel too far for all of the appointments which come with having kids, like blood tests, iron infusions and regular checkups.

“I only had to travel to Townsville for my ultrasounds and a couple of key appointments.”

RFDS Primary Health Care Nurse Manager Lesley Mallard was a familiar face for Kate and her children providing all their healthcare needs at the Georgetown clinic.

“Quality antenatal care, one of the core interventions in the first 2,000 days, is offered to women living remotely on a shared care basis with their birthing service,” Lesley said.

“Our team provide as much care as possible in their community to minimise the need for women to travel frequently for investigations and antenatal checks.

“Women and families who require additional care, support or education can attend our clinics as often as needed.

“Our model of care helps to build strong relationships with families, and the community.”

Families returning to their community, following the birth of their baby, are supported through the postnatal and early parenting and early childhood years by the same team that provided their antenatal care.

Our primary health care staff offer a full range of services including breastfeeding support, social and emotional parenting support, immunisations, scheduled infant and childhood development and growth assessments.

“We feel privileged to support women and families living in rural and remote regions,” Lesley said.

“We are in awe of the resilience and capability of these women.

“They often home school or drive long distances with a carload of children to school, to shop, or to access services, all while being active workers with their partners on rural properties.

“Clinic days also provide an important social connection for remote families to enjoy catching up with each other while waiting – although they might be neighbours, their fences are long!”

“This made life so much easier because I didn’t have to travel too far for all of the appointments which come with having kids, like blood tests, iron infusions and regular checkups.”

Mount Surprise Patient – Kate Terry

“Our team provide as much care as possible in their community to minimise the need for women to travel frequently for investigations and antenatal checks.”

Primary Health Care Nurse Manager Lesley Mallard

Medical chests and pharmacy –the perfect match

MEDICAL CHESTS

This year the RFDS welcomed its first pharmacist, Elizabeth Doran, to the organisation as RFDS Medical Chest Service Lead.

With more than 12 years of experience as an emergency medicine pharmacist, Elizabeth is reviewing the RFDS Medical Chest Program through a clinical lens to assess how the organisation can further improve medication services, safety, and quality for those living in rural and remote communities.

“In my prior experience, I created and developed a team of advanced clinical pharmacists to provide an innovative service to the emergency and trauma centre at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital to lead what was to be an innovative practice,”

Elizabeth said.

“This placed a pharmacist clinician at the bedside as a resource in resuscitation and trauma response and to support the patients and other clinicians in the ED, which was a new initiative for Queensland.

“Working in the ED I would always see the RFDS with patient transfers, and I saw a unique opportunity to work with their medical chests.”

The RFDS Medical Chest Program started in 1942 and has been a safety net for Queenslanders who are isolated from a pharmacy or medical service, providing access to life-saving medications and medical supplies.

The concept was developed by a RFDS doctor who realised a lot of time was spent during a consultation identifying what was available in their first aid kits and would be suitable for the condition at hand and decided it would be easier if standardised chests were available.

The chests include antibiotics to treat soft tissue, urinary tract, and chest infections, all the way through to adrenaline, midazolam and morphine to treat accidents, trauma and other significant medical emergencies until the RFDS arrives.

“The medical chest is so much more than a box in someone’s kitchen – it is a privilege to have access to these medicines and an incredible service offered by the RFDS.”

Medical Chest Service Lead

Elizabeth Doran

“Medical chest holders speak with a RFDS Doctor via telehealth who will undertake a medical assessment and consultation to advise you which medications to use.” Elizabeth Doran

Approximately 1,200 medical chests are located across the state at various locations including cattle stations, communities, mines, marine vessels, police stations, campsites, caravan parks and clinics.

“Medical chest holders speak with a RFDS Doctor via telehealth who will undertake a medical assessment and consultation to advise you which medications to use,” Elizabeth said.

“If they determine you require a medical retrieval, then they will tell you what to use in the interim whilst someone comes to get you. Providing adequate pain relief or an early dose of antibiotics can make a real difference to patient experiences and improve clinical outcomes.

“Patients are also more independent with taking care of their own health needs – particularly people in the bush, so the chest contents should allow for a greater degree of self-care and escalation when needed.”

While the chest and its contents are governed by RFDS Federation and reviewed every two years, Elizabeth is using her strategic clinical skills and pharmaceutical knowledge to vigorously review the contents to look at the usage data and clinical evidence to decipher which first-line treatments could be added to improve patient care.

“A good simple example is providing a medication in a formulation that can be administered as a liquid into the cheek or into the nose as well as an injection,” she said

“This small change can make it a lot less stressful for someone to administer treatment to a person who is experiencing a seizure.”

There is also the opportunity to review medical chest usage data to inform and support RFDS primary health care clinicians by identifying healthcare issues and public health promotion needs in their region.

“The medical chest is so much more than a box in someone’s kitchen – it is a privilege to have access to these medicines and an incredible service offered by the RFDS,” she said.

Elizabeth is also involved in other aspects of medication management across the organisation, including providing expertise around components of the new electronic health record, content to policies and procedures, medication safety and assisting in the review of clinical incidents.

“The scope for a pharmacist in RFDS (Queensland Section) is limitless, with opportunities for improving medication management and pharmaceutical care across the whole spectrum of services we offer for the people of rural and remote Queensland,” she said.

At the forefront: navigating the digital frontier of telehealth

WHO WE ARE | DR MEG O’CONNELL – MEDICAL LEAD – TELEHEALTH, CAIRNS BASE

In 1917, the postmaster in the remote Kimberley settlement of Halls Creek performed emergency surgery on an injured stockman with a penknife using instructions sent from Perth by morse code. That incident is not only part of the RFDS founding story; it was the first use of telehealth.

The statewide telehealth team in Cairns is proud to be the current custodians of the world’s oldest remote consultation system and part of the long history of RFDS.

“We’ve actually come full circle from Fred Tuckett operating on Jimmy Darcy with a penknife more than a century ago”, said Medical Lead – Telehealth, Dr Meg O’Connell.

“Remote consultations by telephone or radio now form the core of our services. Today, Fred would simply have had to call the closest RFDS base, open the Medical Chest, and relax knowing that help was on its way.”

Coming to the Service with experience in aerospace and hyperbaric medicine, Meg was appointed as Medical Lead − Telehealth last year and has quickly become part of the RFDS family. As lead, she has overall responsibility for service delivery and day-today patient care but is also responsible for training and the ongoing development of the service.

With a background in space medicine, Meg has drawn parallels between the RFDS telehealth services and space medicine.

“The patients we care for through telehealth are more remote than astronauts on the International Space Station,” Meg said.

“Astronauts in space rely on telehealth doctors to support them. Just like our patients. Space medicine is telehealth.

“There is much space medicine can learn from RFDS telehealth and much we can learn from space medicine, so it’s very synergistic.”

With further technological advances, Meg envisages greater use of video conferencing, new services such as remote patient monitoring and, ultimately, the creation of an interconnected virtual community where nurses, doctors and other health professionals can interact frequently with patients as they would in a small town.

“We will always have that remote patient mindset because that is what our founders wanted us to do, put a ‘mantle of safety’ around the people of Australia’s remote communities.

“We will continue to be primarily a reactive service but I like to dream that, one day, we will have the resources to be more proactive,” she said.

“It could do so much to improve mental health, produce earlier diagnoses, and encourage preventive action. It was a decade from Jimmy Darcy’s accident to the first ambulance flight from Cloncurry, but look where RFDS is today!”

“The patients we care for through telehealth are more remote than astronauts on the International Space Station.”

Dr Meg O’Connell

RFDS skyward: our game-changing Operations Control Centre

RFDS reached a major milestone in November 2022 with the launch of its state-of-the-art Operations Control Centre (OCC).

The launch of the OCC represents a significant leap forward for the RFDS. While still in its infancy, the Centre has quickly established its importance as the vital nerve centre of operations in Queensland.

Staffed around the clock by experts in fields as diverse as nursing and engineering, the Centre provides support to frontline clinical crews across the state with a more proactive and coordinated approach to operations.

The constant stream of real-time data from bases, aircraft, and personnel is displayed on desktop monitors and a wall of computer screens, enabling the team to consider and manage every aspect of an aeromedical retrieval or incident. It also enables them to meet their goal of delivering the best possible care to the people who rely on the Service, wherever they live in the state.

In addition, regular reports based on the data collected ensure that lessons learned are fed back into the system to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of operations.

Manager of the Centre, Cassie Windsor, sees this data as essential to the future of the RFDS as a whole and does not doubt that information collected since the launch already demonstrates greater accountability and efficiency.

She proudly cites that, thanks to high standards, robust systems, and improved information sharing between pilots, the engineering department and the maintenance watch team, we are seeing improved availability and utlilisation of our growing fleet.

“Co-locating with the other services will undoubtedly enhance collaboration and face-toface problem-solving, aligning perfectly with our shared goal of providing a world-class service to the people of Queensland.”

Manager Operations Control Centre – Cassie Windsor

The information from the Centre’s systems is also essential to the donors and supporters whose belief in the value of the OCC enabled the project to proceed. Thanks to the data now available, they can see clearly that their contribution has made a real difference.

The next step for the OCC will be to enhance the OCC data suite further to enable a more live view of information which can then be analysed, verified, and distributed across the broader OCC team, RFDS bases, and directly to the relevant frontline crews. This will represent another leap forward in shared situational awareness across our organisation and another improvement that will directly improve the patient journey.

The OCC also represents the first foray into the Brisbane Aeromedical Base when it is completed and is a good proving ground for Brisbane Airport based strategic coordination. Cassie and her team of Duty Managers, Duty Tasking Officers, Maintenance Watch Engineers, and Flight Nurses look forward to co-locating with the other services.

“Co-locating with the other services will undoubtedly enhance collaboration and face-to-face problem-solving, aligning perfectly with our shared goal of providing a worldclass service to the people of Queensland,” she said.

Quick thinking makes for a safe arrival

AEROMEDICAL RETRIEVAL

All RFDS bases in Queensland (except Longreach) provide an aeromedical retrieval service for emergencies.

In 2022/23, more than 12,500 patients were transported across Queensland.

This includes the provision of direct primary responses as well as transport of patients between hospitals — known as inter-facility transfers.

There are more than 2,000 landing strips in the RFDS network across Australia, many of which are used on a regular basis and others that exist purely for retrievals.

Working around the clock, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, the Flying Doctor is there whenever you need them.

Yowah resident Sarah Carty knows this all too well. Sarah woke up and began to experience what felt like indigestion at 30 weeks pregnant, prompting her partner Brad to call the RFDS in the early hours of the morning.

“I got up to go to the bathroom and get a quick-eze tablet, but as I was walking to the bathroom, I felt liquid running down my leg,” Sarah said.

“I thought maybe my water had broken, but when

I turned the light on, I saw it was a trail of blood. I woke my partner Brad and he called the RFDS while I sat in the shower doing my best to stay calm.”

When RFDS Flight Nurses Courtney and Alex spoke to Sarah’s partner Brad, they realised the severity of Sarah’s situation.

The decision by the crew was made for an urgent retrieval with two flight nurses and a doctor on board due to the potential imminent birth of a premature baby in a very isolated location.

“Sarah was, in that moment, possibly the most unwell patient I have ever seen in my 18 years with RFDS.”

Dr Charles Ellis-Hallett

Upon assessment, it was noted that Sarah had concerning symptoms of placental abruption and severe pre-eclampsia. On top of this, baby Brody’s heart rate was critically low.

“Even in a major hospital, this would be a lifethreatening emergency for both the mum and baby,” Courtney said.

“In Sarah’s case, she was over 1,000kms from the nearest tertiary hospital.”

Due to Sarah’s condition, Dr Charles Ellis-Hallett knew he had to have a serious conversation with the couple.

“Due to Sarah’s condition, and the condition of her unborn child, a serious discussion was had with Sarah and her partner Brad about the risk to her and her baby’s life,” Charles said.

The RFDS crew immediately started life-saving treatments that prevented Sarah’s condition from worsening while a destination was being determined.

“We spoke to Roma Hospital, and they were very obliging and said no problems, bring her here,”

Charles said.

“To go to Brisbane would have just taken too long.”

Once on the ground in Roma, Sarah and the RFDS crew were transported by Queensland Ambulance Service to Roma Hospital.

“When we arrived at Roma Hospital, I think it was 9:45am, I was wheeled into a room full of people, and a few minutes later I was breathing in and out and gone,” Sarah said.

Baby Brody was born a short time later, at 10:06am weighing just 1.3 kilograms.

“When I woke, I had an extremely dry mouth and could hear tiny cries coming from somewhere in the room, hearing the cries I felt relief and thought he had made it so far,” Sarah said.

After Sarah and baby Brody were stabilised, Courtney was able to call Sarah’s partner Brad and tell him that not only was Sarah stable and doing well but also that he was now the proud father of a beautiful and tiny baby boy.

“It is an incredible privilege to have been present for Brody’s birth, to help him safely into this world and that we now get to watch him grow and see Sarah and Brad thrive as parents,” Alex said.

“This is something that is entirely unique to working with RFDS in remote areas,” Alex said.

RFDS operates as part of the Queensland Health aeromedical network.

Each RFDS aircraft is staffed with a pilot and flight nurse, with medical officers on board when required. The aircraft are fully pressurised and configured to resemble mini-intensive care units.

Blazing new trails: Aeromedical Nurse Practitioners

WHO WE ARE | HAYDEN WILSON - NURSE PRACTITIONER – AEROMEDICAL, ROCKHAMPTON BASE

Since volunteering for the ambulance service as a 16-year-old on Norfolk Island, Hayden Wilson has focused on building his career as a nurse, culminating in a Master of Nurse Practitioner from The University of Queensland and an appointment this year as one of the first RFDS aeromedical nurse practitioners.

As registered nurses with a minimum of five years experience and a postgraduate nursing qualification at the Masters level, nurse practitioners are the most senior clinical nurses in Australia’s healthcare system.

Australia’s first nurse practitioners were appointed more than 20 years ago, but while the profession is well regarded in Australia today, it is often misunderstood. This is partly due to low numbers – of more than 450,000 registered nurses and midwives in the country, only some 2,500 hold endorsements as nurse practitioners.

The lack of research into the effectiveness and value of the position within the Australian aeromedical context adds to the misunderstanding of the role.

RFDS has remedied that by establishing a threeyear trial of aeromedical nurse practitioners in Queensland. RFDS aims to collect data about the services the three current RFDS aeromedical nurse practitioners provide. The results of this trial will enable the RFDS to determine the impact of this service on patient care and cost-effectiveness.

Among the many benefits that aeromedical nurse practitioners bring to their role in RFDS is their extensive experience as flight nurses and their organisational knowledge.

“When you combine that with their prescribing authority, advanced assessment skills and holistic approach to patient care, this makes them highly valuable and functional members of any retrieval team,” said Hayden.

Cases which might previously have been assigned to a doctor are increasingly being tasked to aeromedical nurse practitioners.

“Crews are able to respond faster, and doctors are being freed up to treat the most serious cases.”

Hayden Wilson

“The uptake has been excellent,” said Hayden.

“Crews are able to respond faster, and doctors are being freed up to treat the most serious cases.”

“Early indications are that having an aeromedical nurse practitioner on duty seven days a week has already had a positive impact.

“From the 6:00am briefing each day, we are on duty for a full 12-hour shift, so we are able to have input into decisions and work with the whole team to ensure the best patient outcomes,” said Hayden.

“That’s very satisfying and with more than 30 successful clinical missions undertaken in the first two months of the trial, I am very excited about the future of this service.”

Rural roots, high-flying future

In the busy life of a flight nurse, taking time out for a reset is essential. For Izzy Graham, there’s no better place than the Graham family property at Eumamurrin, north-west of Roma, where she can spend a day riding and working with the Black Angus cattle alongside her Mum and Dad.

That life-long connection to rural and remote Australia has proven unexpectedly valuable to Izzy in her role as a member of the RFDS team in Charleville.

“When a patient is in pain or a member of their family is distressed or anxious, being able to chat to them about normal, everyday aspects of life in the bush really helps establish trust and rapport,” she says.

“Before I became a flight nurse, I would never have thought that the prices at the latest bull sale would have a clinical application!”

Izzy’s path to becoming a RFDS

story.That early understanding of the importance of the Service remained with her, and after completing her Bachelor of Nursing studies

with her, and after completing her Bachelor of Nursing studies at the Queensland University of Technology, she began to pursue the possibility of working for the RFDS.

at the Queensland University of Technology, she began to pursue the possibility of working for the RFDS.

As flight nurses need qualifications in nursing and midwifery, she began a midwifery course in NSW and applied successfully for the Maureen Stevenson Bursary offered by the RFDS to support further study by nurses.

As flight nurses need qualifications in nursing and midwifery, she began a midwifery course in NSW and applied successfully for the Maureen Stevenson Bursary offered by the RFDS to support further study by nurses.

“When they phoned to tell me that I had been awarded the bursary, I didn’t have an ounce of hesitation – I don’t think I have said ‘yes’ to anything so quickly in my life!,” she said.

“When they phoned to tell me that I had been awarded the bursary, I didn’t have an ounce of hesitation – I don’t think I have said ‘yes’ to anything so quickly in my life!,”

On completion of her midwifery course and a six-month placement, Izzy was posted to the RFDS Charleville Base where she and other nurses conduct weekly clinics in the region to

she and other nurses conduct weekly clinics in the region to provide antenatal care and advice, baby checks and administer immunisations.

provide antenatal care and advice, baby checks and administer immunisations.

“Unlike intensive care where the focus is on solving problems and dealing with pain and grief, it is an enormous joy and privilege to work with young, healthy women and their families during this wonderful stage in their lives.”

“Flying high above the landforms, she said.

“Unlike intensive care where the focus is on solving problems and dealing with pain and grief, it is an enormous joy and privilege to work with young, healthy women and their families during this wonderful stage in their lives.”

Izzy and the team are also rostered for aeromedical retrievals and it is those flights that, paradoxically, she finds very grounding.

Izzy and the team are also rostered for aeromedical retrievals and it is those flights that, paradoxically, she finds very grounding.

“Flying high above the landforms, waterways and ecosystems of this vast country always strengthens my commitment to the people of the outback,” she said.

“When they phoned to tell me that I had been awarded the bursary, I didn’t have an ounce of hesitation – I don’t think I have said ‘yes’ to anything so quickly in my life!”

Izzy Graham

IZZY GRAHAM – FLIGHT NURSE, CHARLEVILLE BASE

Blending passions

Self-described as an “emergency physician, fitness fanatic, marine fishkeeping enthusiast and #FOAMed explorer,” Dr William See arrived in Charleville in February 2023 to take up the position of Medical Officer at the RFDS base –and has taken the role and the community to his heart.

WHO WE ARE | DR WILLIAM SEE – MEDICAL OFFICER, CHARLEVILLE BASE

Born and raised in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, William undertook his medical studies with the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, graduating in 2007 and moved to Australia two years later.

While based at Brisbane’s Prince Charles Hospital in 2009, he had his first experience of rural and remote medicine in Mount Isa.

The strong clinical skills acquired during his training in Dublin proved invaluable, but for someone who had lived all his life in large cities, it was something of a culture shock to discover how vitally important healthcare is in remote areas, and how critical the RFDS plays a role in providing that care.

With that experience, as well as a life-long passion for aviation, it is not surprising that more than a decade later, William seized the opportunity to join the Charleville Base team.

Providing medical services to an area almost the size of the United Kingdom is incomprehensible to his

friends in Ireland, and his colleagues in metropolitan areas of Australia envy the high level of care RFDS enables him to provide.

“As a Medical Officer, I feel privileged to help rural and remote communities,” he said.

“On RFDS flights, I have a maximum of two patients at any given time, so I can give them 100 per cent of my attention and reflect on the best possible treatment. That is incredibly rewarding. As well as that, I am part of a team with an amazing work ethic and Charleville is a lovely, welcoming community.”

William is still dedicated to maintaining his fitness and is a committed mentor to younger doctors through the free, open-access medical education community on Twitter (#FOAMed), but it’s his twin passions of aviation and marine fishkeeping that enable him to relax. He’s certainly the only RFDS Medical Officer who has both a flight simulator and a six-foot fish tank in his lounge room!

Celebrating community

Three gala events were held throughout the year to recognise the enduring partnership between the RFDS and the communities who support us.

Both the Brisbane Gala, Light the Lanterns: An RFDS Celebration, and the Mount Isa Hangar Ball raised funds for the RFDS, raising over $45,000 and over $25,000, respectively.

“The evenings were about one thing – celebrating the enduring partnership between the RFDS (Queensland Section) and the people who support us,” RFDS (Queensland Section) Chair, Russell Postle said.

“We simply cannot do what we do without the people in the communities in which we work.

“Our primary health care clinics would not be able to be delivered, and our aeromedical teams would not be in the air if it weren’t for the ongoing kindness of the community who support our work.

“These events gave us an opportunity to share supporter stories, including our local hero stories, as we knew many of the people at the events helped make our team’s day-to-day job possible.

“Whether it be picking up the team from the airstrip and taking them into the clinic or lighting the runways for us to land – we could not do it without them.”

As the organisation marks 95 years of service, the events celebrated the past while looking ahead to the future as we move towards 100 years of operation.

RFDS (Queensland Section) Chief Executive Officer Meredith Staib said the organisation is proud to have the opportunity to host these events and show appreciation for the communities in which we work.

“The RFDS does not take for granted its deep connection with the communities in which we serve,” Meredith said.

“We feel privileged to have the opportunity to work across the entire state of Queensland and ensure we can provide the finest care to the furthest corner.

“Our teams work deeply in the everyday lives of different communities across the state, something that is unique to our organisation but only possible because of the ongoing support of these communities.”

Both events showcased our commitment to regional, rural and remote communities and improving health outcomes for First Nations people.

Big Red Bash

FUNDRAISING | THE BIG RED BASH

Nestled on the fringes of the Simpson Desert, the Big Red Bash stands tall as the most remote music festival globally, captivating the hearts of more than 10,000 people from all corners of Australia. Beyond its magic lies a philanthropic force that raises crucial funds for the RFDS.

A range of events ignited the spirit of giving. One standout was the Nutbush dance, where 4,084 festival-goers smashed the world record while each registration fee of $15 was devoted to the RFDS. Adding to the excitement was the exhilarating Drag Race, a short fun run through the campsite, followed by the ‘Fashions in the Desert’ competition. All ticket sales for this race were dedicated to the RFDS, proving that even a few hundred meters of fun can make a difference.

In addition to these events, raffles and merchandise stalls offered festival-goers the opportunity to support the RFDS through their purchases, creating a synergistic bond between music, entertainment, and philanthropy.

Another highlight that epitomised the festival’s meaningful purpose was Jacob Weidman’s remarkable journey.

Jacob was the winner of the RFDS’s money-can’tbuy outback experience, including VIP festival tickets and a scenic flight aboard a RFDS aircraft.

But Jacob was no stranger to the RFDS, with his son, Jack, once needing to be transported by the RFDS, flying from Weipa to Townsville at just three weeks old when he became unwell with an uncommon condition called pyloric stenosis which leaves a baby unable to digest anything they drink.

“I couldn’t believe it when I received the call to say I’d won! The Birdsville Big Red Bash is such an iconic festival and it’s also an amazing fundraiser for the RFDS. We realised that Jack would turn three while the festival was on so he’s came along and is getting the best birthday present ever.

“To think that he once was such an unwell little baby on that aeromedical flight and now he’s this healthy, happy boy full of energy, who’s getting to enjoy travelling all the way to Birdsville and watching all these incredible musicians perform live is just incredible,” said Jacob.

The 2022 Big Red Bash surpassed all expectations, amassing over $150,000 in funds.

Ambassadors light the way

For almost 100 years the RFDS has held an enduring partnership with the people of Queensland, born from struggle, mutual respect and trust.

Without the continued support of Queensland communities, we would not be able to provide the finest aeromedical and primary health care to the furthest corners of the state.

Our purpose remains as critical now as it was in 1928 – a purpose that requires a full and devoted community of staff and supporters.

The RFDS Ambassador Program – Lighting the Way aims to continue to grow and strengthen our partnership with the communities we serve.

The program champions health and wellbeing in regional, rural and remote communities with each

ambassador having a genuine affinity with the Flying Doctor and remaining committed to improving health access outcomes for Queenslanders.

While each ambassador is different, the program allows individuals and organisations who share our passion to recognise and champion our existing supporters, while motivating and inspiring others to join us on our mission.

Each ambassador has committed to share their time, expertise, and public profile to help promote the RFDS (Queensland Section) and the work we do to connect communities to the finest healthcare services.

Meet our ambassadors

Sandy Gillies

Sandy Gillies, a proud Gunggari woman, is currently the CEO of Western Queensland Primary Health Network.

Sandy is passionate about improving health outcomes for Western Queenslanders, with extensive experience working in the healthcare industry throughout rural and remote Queensland.

Sam Hughes

Sam Hughes, also affectionately known as The Travelling Jackaroo, travels around Australia in a 1957 Chamberlain 9G tractor to raise funds for the RFDS (Queensland Section) and awareness about mental health.

Russell Postle

RFDS (Queensland Section) Chair, Russell Postle first served on our Board from 1987 to 1990 and was re-appointed to the Board in 1994.

He is also Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee and was a partner at BDO with experience providing audit, business advisory and specialist taxation consulting services to a range of clients.

The Hon. Bruce Scott AM

Bruce joined the Board as a Casual Director in 2016 after an extensive parliamentary career.

He was elected to the House of Representatives as the Federal Member for Maranoa from 1990 until 2013 and held many ministerial positions during this time.

Georgie Somerset AM

RFDS (Queensland Section) Deputy Chair, Georgie Somerset is a beef producer and rural leader with experience in agribusiness, rural tourism, and regional development.

Her work involves identifying and advocating opportunities, resolving issues, and creating linkages and networks across rural sectors.

Emeritus Professor Robert Stable AM

Professor Stable joined the Board in March 2012 and is currently a member of the Health Advisory Committee.

Professor Stable’s former roles include Vice-Chancellor and President of Bond University, Director-General of Queensland Health, General Practitioner and Flying Doctor.

Wudarabin Snider

Wudarabin Snider is an Aboriginal artist, who has previously created artwork depicting the values of the RFDS (Queensland Section).

Wudarabin is currently studying at James Cook University to become an art teacher.

Tony “Tonka” Toholke

Tony “Tonka” Toholke is a passionate member of the Mount Isa Community and a proud supporter of the RFDS (Queensland Section), committed to championing men’s mental health.

Tonka was named the 2022 North Queensland Volunteer of the Year and 2023 Spirit of Mount Isa.

Local Hero starts Horse Wisdom Program

It has been a busy year for the 2022 RFDS Queensland Hero Award winner Emma Jackson, who is working to bring her Horse Wisdom Program to life.

Using the $20,000 community grant she received from Ergon Energy Retail, and thanks to additional support provided by the RFDS Foundation, Emma is rolling out a series of equine-assisted learning workshops for Cape York locals. The first session kicked off in June 2023, with the program exploring people’s feelings and thoughts while providing them with an understanding of how these link to different behaviours.

Having seen previous success facilitating other programs with horses and cattle, Emma is looking forward to building on this through the Horse Wisdom Program.

“We are delivering the program out at my home on Wolverton Station, which is in central Cape York Peninsula,” Emma said.

“Connecting to nature, the outdoors and participating in the program away from home, family and other commitments and pressures is important.

“Horses bring warmth, love, compassion and understanding to a relationship which will help with regulation, calming and releasing tension and selflimiting thoughts and beliefs for our participants.

“An indescribable magic comes from horses when working with people, and it is possible to feel that magic and reconnect with who you truly are and be fully present.”

With the support of the RFDS and Northern Queensland Primary Health Network, Emma will have a RFDS mental health clinician present at each session.

Watch the video

Meet the 2022 RFDS Queensland Hero Emma Jackson. Watch her video at rfdslocalhero.com.au or through the QR code.

“Working with the RFDS and designing a broader holistic program with the support and expertise of a mental health clinician who works across the Cape York Peninsula complements the outcomes beautifully,” she said.

“A RFDS mental health clinician will attend each session, and we have been working together on the design and content for the program.

“Having a clinician who understands this region integrated across the program means people can take away and learn more while being better supported should they need it.”

Emma said she is excited to see where this program can go while helping make a difference in the lives of those living in remote Far North Queensland.

“These two days could really help people to have more control over their feelings, be more aware of limiting thoughts and see how these affect their choices and behaviours.”

Ergon Energy Retail is a proud partner of the RFDS Local Hero Awards.

RFDS LOCAL HERO AWARDS | EMMA JACKSON

“Working with the RFDS and designing a broader holistic program with the support and expertise of a mental health clinician who works across the Cape York Peninsula complements the outcomes beautifully.”

Emma Jackson

Fundraising for our future

The future of the RFDS (Queensland Section) relies on the generosity and comradery of the Queensland community.

Nearly 100 years on, the Flying Doctor has expanded from aeromedical retrievals to also provide inter-facility transfers, primary health care clinics, mental health and telehealth consultations and oral health services. All of which would not be possible without help from the community.

As a not-for-profit organisation, the future of the RFDS lies in the hands of the community through bequests, fundraising and donations.

This year the community has gone above and beyond to support the Flying Doctor to ensure all Queenslanders have access to healthcare services, no matter where they live. The events listed below are just some of this year’s incredible fundraising.

Woolworths Round-Up

In May 2023 we ran a very successful fundraising campaign in partnership with Woolworths Supermarkets, where Woolies customers could choose to Round Up their shopping to the nearest dollar with this change donated to RFDS. This marked the eighth year of conducting in-store fundraising, which has helped us to raise more than $3.1 million. This year alone, our target of $250,000 was raised to support those living in regional rural and remote Queensland.

Roma Saleyards

This year the RFDS (Queensland Section) was marked as one of the charity beneficiaries of the Roma Saleyards, Australia’s largest cattle sale yards. Maranoa Regional Council generously chose to donate 50 per cent of the live weight and open auction selling fees received for each head of cattle sold at the Roma Saleyard Store Sale in May 2023. More than $44,000 was donated to the RFDS (Queensland Section) to help deliver the finest care to the furthest corners of the state.

Outback Air Race

The 11th Outback Air Race was celebrated in September 2022 raising $197,000 for the RFDS (Queensland Section). The Outback Air Race is a popular time trial through the Australian outback and is held every three years. Pilots and their passengers fly for up to two weeks over some of Australia’s most challenging and stunning landscapes raising vital funds for the Flying Doctor. This year saw 102 competitors in 42 privately owned light aircraft racing from Darwin in the Northern Territory to Coffs Harbour in New South Wales. Since 1996, the event has raised more than $3.1 million.

RFDS Auxiliary

Our RFDS Auxiliaries are continuously located at shopping centres and local events across the state to promote the RFDS and provide the community a chance to show their support to the Flying Doctor. In the last financial year, $210,500 was raised thanks to their fundraising efforts.

Volunteers

Gordon Park resident Val Marlow is a vital part of the RFDS family, dedicating more than 33 years of her life to fundraising for the RFDS (Queensland Section). Mrs Marlow is now President of the RFDS Brisbane Volunteer Auxiliary where she conducts tours at the RFDS Brisbane Base as well as attending functions, clubs and meetings to promote the Service and offer people the opportunity to give their support.

Country Cups Challenge

Through a new partnership with Racing Queensland, the RFDS became the beneficiary of the 2022 Queensland Country Cups Challenge series, which comprised 16 qualifiers in regional, rural and remote Queensland and culminated in a final in Brisbane. Participating clubs support the RFDS through donation tins, raffles and other raceday-related activities, with the hope to raise more than $500,000 for the RFDS over the next three years.

Fundraising to support the Flying Doctor

SUPPORTING US | ELISSA – OCEANS TO OUTBACK

The RFDS relies on support from the community to continue to provide the finest care to the furthest corner.

Campaigns such as Oceans to Outback support the Flying Doctor to continue to deliver life-saving services to regional, rural and remote Queensland.

In 2022, Elissa rallied a team of 10 participants together to take part in the inaugral Oceans to Outback fundraising event, raising just shy of $9,500 as a team and individually raising $4,508.

Having grown up on a cattle station, and still living on one, Elissa saw Oceans to Outback as a great way to raise funds to support the Flying Doctor.

“The RFDS has always been a part of my life as I grew up on a cattle station and still live on one now,” Elissa said.

“Myself, my mum, my dad, my sister and my daughter have all needed the RFDS, and I can’t tell you how much they’ve saved our lives.

“I was flown out by RFDS when I was 17 and fell off a horse. Dad was flown out multiple times and they helped me over the phone when my daughter was 9 months old, saved her life.”

Together with a number of other rural women, Elissa formed a team through a personal trainer who runs live workouts on Facebook for rural women.

From this, each team member would attend workouts and chat about how they were going with the fundraising challenge.

Elissa said the support from her community assisted her in achieving such an excellent fundraising result, while also using the opportunity to educate people on the services offered by the Flying Doctor.

“It was an opportunity to make people aware of all the services offered and that it’s not just about the planes,” Elissa said.

“All the little phone calls you can make all the time also save lives. The Flying Doctor visits once a week, but I would call them a few times in between.”

“Myself, my mum, my dad, my sister and my daughter have all needed the RFDS, and I can’t tell you how much they’ve saved our lives.”

Elissa

Putting the fun in fundraising

SUPPORTING

US

| LIBBY GARDINER – RFDS DARLING DOWNS AUXILIARY PRESIDENT

Our RFDS Auxiliary members work tirelessly at events, community days, fundraisers and meetings across the state to proudly represent the Flying Doctor and motivate the community to give their support.

Newly elected RFDS Darling Downs Auxiliary President Libby Gardiner is putting the ‘fun’ in fundraising by spreading her love for the RFDS within the community through social events.

With a passion for the outback and a business and events management background, Libby could not turn down the opportunity to join the RFDS Auxiliary when she moved to Toowoomba and has since been a shining supporter.

“I lived in Charleville for a year, right near the airport, and every time I heard a plane come in at night, I knew it was the Flying Doctor,” Libby said.

“Witnessing the aeromedical retrievals land at the base was so inspiring, and I just kept thinking –this organisation is amazing.

“That’s why I volunteer because I think we need to do more for them.”

Libby joined the RFDS Auxiliary six years ago and has been actively involved in organising RFDS fundraising events across the Darling Downs region.

This year the team hosted an annual lunch and held a RFDS fundraiser and raffle at two major regional events – The Carnival of Flowers and Emaho Trees Gardens of the Downs.

“Volunteers and fundraisers are crucial to keep the Flying Doctor flying.”

Libby Gardiner

The team raised more than $20,000, generously donated to the RFDS (Queensland Section).

Executive General Manager Fundraising and Philanthropy Katherine Ash said our RFDS Auxiliary groups have gone above and beyond to keep the Flying Doctor in the air.

“Congratulations to all of our RFDS volunteers and auxiliary fundraisers for their amazing commitment and efforts in supporting the RFDS,” Katherine said.

“Our RFDS Auxiliaries across the state have collectively raised over $200,000 for the RFDS (Queensland Section) this year, and we could not be more grateful for their dedication, hard work and kindness.

“I would like to thank everyone for their extraordinary efforts, these funds will ensure we can continue delivering life-saving healthcare services to the furthest corner of the state.

“Volunteers and fundraisers are crucial to keep the Flying Doctor flying.”

A desperate fight to save a young mum

PATIENT STORY | JESSICA ALLEN, ROCKHAMPTON

Jessica Allen was a picture of health before she suddenly went into cardiac arrest while attending a rugby game in Gladstone.

The young 22-year-old mum was assisting on the sidelines before her heart stopped for 10 minutes.

For 22 minutes, bystanders did CPR in a desperate attempt to bring her back, before she was urgently taken to Gladstone Hospital by a QAS ambulance.

Jess’s mum, Trudy, received the call in Brisbane and was transported to the Gladstone Hospital by our aeromedical crew which had been tasked by Retrieval Services Queensland (RSQ) to fly up from our Brisbane Base.

“At first, the doctor told me they were flying her to Brisbane, but then they called back to say they couldn’t stabilise her,” Trudy said.

“I needed to go straight to Gladstone Hospital.

“They were basically telling me to come and say my goodbyes.”

As Trudy was on her way to Gladstone, every minute felt like an eternity.

“I just wanted to get to my child,” she said.

When Trudy arrived at Gladstone Hospital, she discovered her daughter’s life was hanging by a thread.

Jess was transported by the RFDS to Brisbane and spent five days in an induced coma in the Intensive Care Unit at the Prince Charles Hospital and was diagnosed with pneumonia and influenza.

“As a family, we’ll always be grateful to the Flying Doctor, you’re such an asset to communities like ours.”

Jessica Allen

Thankfully, she responded well to treatment and, after five days, she was well enough to wake up from her coma and be reunited with her one-yearold daughter Amanii – her number one reason to keep fighting.

Trudy put photos on the wall so that the first thing Jess would see when she woke up was Amanii. Later, Jess had surgery to have a defibrillator fitted and has since gone back to being a busy, active mum who plays competitive rugby.

The whole family is recovering in their own way. For a few weeks, Amanii didn not want to be parted from her mum but now, she is a happy and confident two-year-old.

For Trudy, it is more difficult. She cannot forget how close she came to losing her daughter.

“For Jess, it’s a complete blank – but I remember,” Trudy said.

“As a family, we’ll always be grateful to the Flying Doctor, you’re such an asset to communities like ours.”

Collaborating to provide the finest care

The RFDS acknowledges our strong working relationships with health service providers and communities. These partnerships are essential in providing the finest care to the furthest corner. Working with key partners in the communities ensures the Flying Doctor can provide quality aeromedical retrieval services, as well as essential primary and preventative healthcare to regional, rural and remote communities.

“The QAS and RFDS have a long and established history of working closely together, supporting sick and injured Queenslanders in their time of need. Our co-designed partnerships and agreements will ensure the ongoing sustainability of safe, effective and efficient emergency and inter-hospital responses across Queensland.”

Craig Emery ASM

Commissioner Queensland Ambulance Service

“Since commencing our new 10-year agreement with RFDS in July 2022, which recognises RFDS as the preeminent provider to Queensland Health of fixed wing aeromedical services, Retrieval Services Queensland and RFDS collectively ensure that all Queensland communities and patients, particularly those in rural, remote and regional areas, have equitable and timely access to specialist medical care all day, every day.”

Dr Mark Elcock PSM Executive Director Retrieval Services Queensland

“The collaborative partnership between Western Queensland Primary Health Network (WQPHN) and Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) has further strengthened over the past year. The authentic leadership demonstrated by our senior management teams has been foundational in building strong working relationships and communications between our organisations. WQPHN looks forward to progressing our strategic partnership so we can continue to make a difference in our rural, remote and very remote Western Queensland communities.”

Sandy Gillies Chief Executive Officer Western Queensland Primary

Health Network

“NQPHN recognises the great work by RFDS and, in the last year, NQPHN has funded RFDS to deliver several key programs. The afterhours GP telehealth service expanded to include the Cairns and Hinterland, Townsville, and Mackay regions, and focused on increasing access to care for people in rural and remote areas. The Cape York Mental Health and Wellbeing Service aims to increase availability and accessibility to mental health services for people living in rural and remote communities in the region, and is having a positive and farreaching impact on the communities. Through headspace Cairns, which also has an outreach service on the Atherton Tablelands, young people in the Cairns and Hinterland region have been supported with mental health services. The Cairns facility has witnessed significant growth and currently ranks as the sixth busiest centre among nearly 150 centres nationwide. We are proud of our long-standing partnership with RFDS to help northern Queenslanders live happier, healthier, longer lives.”

Robin Whyte Chief Executive Officer

Northern Queensland Primary Health Network

“North West Hospital and Health Service (NWHHS) is proud of our strong relationship with the RFDS. Our remote communities have been served well by the RFDS services. Working in a collaborative relationship is the only way our communities receive safe and quality care. Our partnership with RFDS is testament to achieving this. I look forward to working with RFDS in 2023/24 and to further strengthen our relationship as we strive for clinical excellence in the NWHHS.”

Sean Birgan Health Service Chief Executive North West Hospital and Health Service

“Developing and maintaining collaborative and equitable partnerships with key service providers across Cape York is key to improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People in Cape York. As the peak Aboriginal and Torres Islander community controlled health organisation in Cape York, we value our relationship with the RFDS (Queensland Section) as we work alongside each other with this common purpose.”

Debra Malthouse Chief Executive Officer Apunipima Cape

York Health Council

“There is no doubt about it, RFDS is so vital to the beat of Charleville and all outback communities. We depend on the RFDS and knowing they are here, as they have been for 80 amazing years, is an absolute comfort to the entire Murweh community.

It is not just the emergency airlifts or the medical consultations, it is the way RFDS are an integral part of our community; the comfort they give us like a big safety blanket. We are put at ease, knowing our RFDS is here. Thanks RFDS for bridging the gap in healthcare access for our residents. Our quality of life is better because of you.”

Cr Shaun Radnedge Mayor of Murweh Shire Council

Celebrating our partners

Thanks to our passionate and committed partners the RFDS (Queensland Section) can provide the finest care to the furthest corner.

Principal Partners

Major Corporate Supporters

Corporate Supporters

Government Partners

National Partners

Major Trust & Foundation Supporters

Gambling Community Benefit Fund

Mazda Foundation

Northern Australia Primary Health Limited

Russell McKimmin Charitable Foundation

Community Partners

APS Foundation

James Frizelle Charitable Foundation

The Lionel & Yvonne Spencer Trust

Estate Late Harold Edward Corbould Charitable Trust

Financial Report – Foreword

The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) is dedicated to providing vital health care to everyone living, travelling, or working in rural, regional and remote Queensland.

The Commonwealth Government provides funding to support our services across emergency retrievals, primary health care and the mobile dental unit; while the Queensland Government supports the inter-facility transfer service. This support is integral to the delivery of our services.

While we receive substantial funding from the State and Federal Governments for our services, we heavily rely on fundraising initiatives and donations from individuals, organisations and the community to provide sufficient funding to meet operational costs as well as to purchase and fit out our aircraft, purchase vital medical equipment and enhance our operational facilities.

We are grateful to receive support from the community which helps us continue to provide the finest care to the furthest corners of the state.

In the year ended 30 June 2023, total donations, and bequests to the RFDS (Queensland Section) amounted to $30.8 million; these funds are crucial to our continued operations and asset acquisition.

The following financials incorporate the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section), RFDS (QLD) Services Limited and RFDS Foundation Limited; (the Consolidated Service), for the financial year ended 30 June 2023.

The consolidated operating result for the year was an operating deficit of $21.6 million – that is our service delivery operating costs exceeded the revenue including grants by this amount. The overall consolidated surplus for the year was $12.3 million after accounting for non-operational funding including donations and bequests of $30.8 million. Capital grant and capital donation revenue of $10.7 million is shown separately because we have received these funds to invest in our assets – aircraft, medical equipment and infrastructure.

Whilst the Consolidated Service produced an overall surplus for the financial year, this surplus along with borrowed funds will be utilised to fund the significant capital commitments required in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial years totalling $79.5 million. These commitments relate to aircraft purchase and medical fit out, aircraft simulator acquisition and base redevelopments in Brisbane, Mount Isa and Townsville and patient transfer facility in Emerald.

Thank you again to our supporters, without your support, the RFDS would not be able to provide, advocate and facilitate equitable access to comprehensive quality healthcare for regional, rural and remote Queensland.

Russell Postle Chair

RFDS (Queensland Section)

2022/23

DIRECTORS’

The directors present their report together with the financial report of The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) and its controlled entities, RFDS (QLD) Services Limited and RFDS Foundation Limited (the Consolidated Service), for the financial year ended 30 June 2023 and the auditor’s report thereon.

1. Directors

The directors of the Consolidated Service at any time during or since the end of the financial year are:

Directors

Mr Russell Postle (Chair) FCA, FTIA, MAICD

Mr Peter Gartshore BCom (QLD)

Mr Mark Gray D. Univ, BEcon (Hons), SF Fin, FAICD

Mrs Julia Leeds (Doctor) MBBS (QLD) GAICD

The Hon. Bruce Scott AM

Mrs Georgina Somerset AM (Deputy Chair) FAICD

Emeritus Professor Robert Stable AM MBBS DUniv (QUT), MHP,FRACGP, FCHSM, FAICD

Mr Eddie Fewings

Dr Sean Rothwell MBBS, FACEM, MHM, AFRACMA, FAWM

Associate Professor Catrina Felton-Busch BA, MPH, Grad Cert PHC Res, PHD (candidate), ARLF

Adjunct A/Professor Ivan Frkovic BSW, MSWAP

Adjunct Professor Sarah Pearson DPhil(Oxon), GAICD, FTSE

Dr Sarah Jane Springer B.Med/DCH/RACGP/FARGP/Ad.DRANZCOG/FACRRM/GradDipClinEd/GAICD/MHA

Company Secretary

Mr Greg O’Toole CPA, BBus (Charles Sturt)

2. Directors’ meetings

Appointed October 1994

Appointed October 2008

Appointed August 2015

Appointed January 2003

Resigned November 2022

Appointed June 2016

Appointed July 2016

Appointed November 2012

Appointed October 2020

Appointed January 2022

Appointed January 2023

Appointed June 2023

Appointed January 2023

Appointed January 2023

Appointed January

The number of Directors’ meetings (including meetings of committees of Directors) and number of meetings attended by each of the Directors and committee members of the Consolidated Service during the financial year are:

Prof I Frkovic

A – Number of meetings attended B – Number of meetings held during the time the director held office during the year

3. Principal activities

The principal activity of the Consolidated Service during the course of this financial year was the provision of health care services, primarily to rural, regional and remote parts of Queensland.

There were no significant changes in the nature of the activities of the Consolidated Service during the year.

Objectives

The strategic plan of the Consolidated Service, which is consistent with the RFDS Federation strategic plan, aims to ensure that the Consolidated Service is delivering excellence in health care, whilst also working to diversify and expand its range of primary health care and aeromedical services.

The strategic plan includes information about our vision, what the organisation would like to achieve, as well as an outline of both the immediate and long term programs of work that will allow us to reach this vision.

The Consolidated Services’ long term objectives are covered by the Consolidated Services’ vision that we will provide, advocate and facilitate equitable access to comprehensive quality health care for rural, remote and regional Queensland. During the past year, operations have been maintained, providing a Mantle of Safety across Queensland.

The Consolidated Service aims to achieve this through:

> Innovative services and methods of delivery which earn the Consolidated Service a reputation for world class quality, safety and efficiency.

> Continually developing our people within a culturally safe environment, so that their satisfaction in their roles is only exceeded by the community respect they have as Service employees.

> Being the leading health organisation governments and non-government organisations rely on for the appropriate provision of comprehensive health care services to rural, regional and remote Queensland.

The Consolidated Service’s strategic objectives could not be achieved without the RFDS undertaking its principal activities of the provision of aeromedical, primary health care and dental services.

The Consolidated Service measures its performance via an analysis of the key patient, aviation and financial statistics contained in the back of this report.

4. Operating performance

The Consolidated operating result for the year was an operating deficit of $21,529,000 (2022: deficit $13,122,000). The overall Consolidated surplus for year was $12,367,000 (2022: $6,242,000) after accounting for non-operational funding. No income tax is payable as the Consolidated Service is exempt under Australian taxation legislation.

During the year the Consolidated Service received $30.8 million in donations and bequests that are used to meet operational requirements for the Consolidated Service. In addition to this, the Consolidated Service received $10.7 million (2022: $6.6 million) in non-operational grant revenue and donations to fund its capital infrastructure programs.

The Consolidated Service accessed borrowed funds of $5.5 million during the year (2022: $0) to assist with aircraft acquisition activities, with borrowings expected to increase up to $50 million in FY25. These funds will be used to support the acquisition of three replacement aircraft and the RFDS capital infrastructure program.

Further information about likely developments in the operations of the Consolidated Service and the expected results of those operations in future financial years has not been included in this report because disclosure of the information would be likely to result in unreasonable prejudice to the Consolidated Service.

5. Significant changes in the state of affairs

In the opinion of the Directors there were no significant changes in the state of affairs of the Consolidated Service that occurred during the financial year under review.

6. Events subsequent to reporting date

In the interval between the end of the financial year and the date of this report, a $10 million loan facility was established to support the capital acquisitions and operational cashflow requirements of Consolidated Service. At the date of this report, no drawdown was made against this facility.

7. Members Liability

The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) is incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001 as a company limited by guarantee. In the event of the Consolidated Service being wound up, the liability of each of the Members is limited to two dollars. As at 30 June 2023 the total liability for membership in the event that the Consolidated Service is wound up would be $100.

8.

Lead auditor’s independence declaration

The Lead auditor’s independence declaration is set out on page 35 and forms part of the directors’ report for the financial year ended 30 June 2023.

9. Rounding off

The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Corporations Instrument 2016/191 and in accordance with that Instrument, amounts in the financial report and directors’ report have been rounded off to the nearest thousand dollars, unless otherwise stated.

This report is made out in accordance with a resolution of the directors:

Mr R Postle Mr M Gray Chair Chair Finance, Risk and Audit Committee

Dated at Brisbane this 28th day of September 2023.

Consolidated statement of financial position

AS AT 30 JUNE 2023

The notes on pages 11 to 30 are an integral part of these financial statements.

Consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2022

Items that may be reclassified subsequent to profit and loss Cash flow hedges – effective portion of changes in fair value

Net change in fair value of available-for-sale investments

The notes on pages 11 to 30 are an integral part of these financial statements.

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023

The notes on pages 11 to 30 are an integral part of these financial statements.

Consolidated statement of cash flows

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023

of exchange rate fluctuation on cash held

The notes on pages 11 to 30 are an integral part of these financial statements.

Notes to the financial statements

1. Reporting entity

The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) (“the Service”) is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee incorporated and domiciled in Australia. The address of the Consolidated Service’s registered office is 12 Casuarina Street, Brisbane Airport, QLD, 4008. The consolidated financial statements of the Service is at, and for the year ended 30 June 2023 and comprise the Service and its controlled entities (together referred to as the Consolidated Service).

2. Basis of accounting

These financial statements are general purpose financial statements and comply with the recognition and measurement requirements in Australian Accounting Standards, the presentation requirements in those Standards as modified by AASB 1060 General Purpose Financial Statements – Simplified Disclosures or For-Profit and Not-for-Profit Entities and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012. They have been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures made by Australian Accounting Standards Board.

As the Consolidated Service is a not-for-profit entity, the terms ‘profit‘ and ‘loss‘ do not correctly describe the nature of the Consolidated Service’s activities. Accordingly, the words ‘operating surplus/(deficit)’ have been substituted for the terms ‘profit/(loss)’ prescribed in Accounting Standard AASB 101.

They were authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 28 September 2023. Details of the Service’s accounting policies, including changes during the year, are included in Note 28.

3. Functional and presentation currency

These financial statements are presented in Australian dollars, which is the Service’s functional currency.

The company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Corporations Instrument 2016/191 and in accordance with that Instrument, all financial information presented in Australian dollars has been rounded to the nearest thousand unless otherwise stated.

4. Use of judgements and estimates

In preparing these financial statements in conformity with Australian Accounting Standards – Reduced Disclosure Requirements, management has made judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised prospectively.

(a) Judgements

Information about critical judgements in applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the consolidated financial statements is included in the following notes:

> Note 13 – Capital investments at fair value

> Note 28 (d) Property, plant and equipment – depreciation of aircraft and aircraft engines

> Note 28 (h) Impairment

> Note 28 (l) Revenue and income

> Note 28 (r) Leases

During the year, the Service received $30.8 million in donations and bequests that are used to meet operational requirements for the Service.

Notes to the financial statements >

with customers – AASB 15

AASB 1058 Income of NFP entities

Capital grants and donations were received to fund current and future base and infrastructure projects in Bundaberg, Brisbane and Mt Isa.

6. Operating deficit

The RFDS (Queensland Section) provides services under contract with the Commonwealth and State Governments generally. There was a consolidated operating deficit for the year end 2023 of $21.529 million (2022: $13.122 million), parent entity operating deficit of $21.011 million (2022: $13.203 million). This deficit has been funded via non-operational funding such as general donations, bequests and financial revenue. Capital funding and capital donations are used to enhance and acquire assets for service delivery.

The consolidated surplus generated for the year end 2023 was $12.367 million (2022: $6.242 million). Parent entity $3.163 million (2022: $4.487 million).

7. Operating expenses

The following are included in operating expenses:

8. Personnel expenses

Personnel expenses are included in health, admin and fundraising expenses.

9. Net financing income

10. Inventories

11. Trade and other receivables

* The RFDS has entered into an agreement to sublease a new aeromedical facility situated at Brisbane Airport from Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC). BAC will construct the new facility which will be leased to RFDS once the construction of those facilities has been completed.

Upon the completion of those facilities, the terms of the agreement to sublease requires RFDS to pay BAC $25 million representing rent in advance for the term of the lease. The Queensland State Government has provided RFDS with $25 million in funding for the upfront rental payment.

Notes to the financial statements > cont.

11. Trade and other receivables > cont.

12. Cash and cash equivalents

The Consolidated Service aims to maintain a cash reserve of approximately $10 million to cover working capital commitments. In addition to this, The Consolidated Service had $50,837,000 in capital commitments at 30 June 2023 (2022: $80,439,000) that had not been expended. These commitments relate to legally committed aircraft purchases and fitout of $43,450,000 and aircraft simulator acquisition of $7,387,000 which are expected to be fulfilled in a staged approach in the 2023/2024 and the 2024/2025 financial year.

In addition to these contractual commitments, there is a further $28,622,000 in expected capital expenditure relating to base redevelopment costs in Mt Isa, Townsville and Brisbane as well as medical equipment acquisitions. The commitments will be funded via RFDS cashflow, contracted funding arrangements, fundraising and where necessary, via borrowed funds.

13. Capital investments

Capital investments represent long-term investments held by the Consolidated Service to assist in funding long term capital expenditure programs. Significant expenditure will be required to maintain the Consolidated Service’s commitment to the delivery of health services including aircraft and other operational assets. In accordance with the long term operational plans of the Consolidated Service, over the next five years, the income earned from these investments will be used to assist in meeting these capital expenditure requirements and to provide an income stream to fund health services.

Equity price risk

Equity price risk arises from equity securities held by the Consolidated Service in listed equity investments and managed investment schemes. The Consolidated Service uses experienced fund managers to manage the market risk associated with movements in equity prices. The performance of the fund manager is reviewed regularly by the Board of the Parent Entity and the RFDS Foundation Board.

All transactions associated with the Consolidated Service’s capital investments are carried out within the Consolidated Service’s Investment Policy Guidelines set by the Finance and Audit Committee and the Investment Committee of RFDS Foundation.

14. Property, plant and equipment

Reconciliation of carrying amount

Notes to the financial statements > cont.

15. Right-of-use assets

Reconciliation of carrying amount

16. Derivative assets

17. Capital and reserves

Reconciliation of movement in capital and reserves

Specific purpose donations/legacies reserve

The Consolidated Service holds all donations and legacies received with a specific purpose nominated, in separate bank accounts or investments until the funds are required for the nominated purpose. Where specific purpose donations are received during the year, these amounts are transferred from accumulated funds to reserves. Where payments are made during the financial year from specific purpose donations received for a nominated purpose, this amount is transferred from reserves to accumulated funds.

Unrealised

gain reserve

The unrealised gain reserve includes the cumulative net change in the fair value of assets previously recognised as available for sale. Since adoption of AASB 9 Financials Instruments investments are no longer classified as available for sale, the Consolidated Service has classified these investments as fair value through profit and loss (FVPL). On adoption of AASB 9 gains and losses on financial assets previously recognised in other comprehensive income are not transferred to profit and loss.

Hedging reserve

The hedging reserve comprises the effective portion of the cumulative net change in fair value of hedging instruments used in cash flow hedges pending subsequent recognition in profit or loss or directly included in the initial cost or other carrying amount of a non-financial asset or non-financial liability.

18. Trade and other payables

19. Employee Benefits

20. Loans and borrowings

In thousands of dollars

Notes to the financial statements > cont.

21. Lease liabilities

In thousands of dollars 2023

a) Amounts recognised in profit and loss

The amounts recognised in the statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income relating to leases where the Consolidated Service is a lessee are shown below.

In

The Consolidated Service leases a number of buildings and hangars under operating leases. The leases run for a period of 1 to 15 years, with an option to renew the lease after that date. None of these leases include contingent rentals.

22. Commitments

The Consolidated Service had $50,837,000 in capital commitments at 30 June 2023 (2022: $80,439,000) that had not been expended. These commitments relate to legally committed aircraft purchases and fitout of $43,450,000 and aircraft simulator acquisition of $7,387,000 which are expected to be fulfilled in a staged approach in the 2023/2024 and the 2024/2025 financial year.

In addition to these contractual commitments, there is a further $28,622,000 in expected capital expenditure relating to base redevelopment costs in Mt Isa, Townsville and Brisbane as well as medical equipment acquisitions. The commitments will be funded via RFDS cashflow, contracted funding arrangements, fundraising and where necessary, via borrowed funds.

23. Reconciliation of cash flows from operating activities

In thousands of dollars 2023

Adjustments for:

23. Reconciliation of cash flows from operating activities > cont.

In thousands of dollars 2023 2022

24. Related party disclosures

a) Parent Entity

The parent entity within the group is Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section).

b) Controlled Entities

Ownership interest in controlled entities are set out in Note 26.

c) Key management personnel compensation

The key management personnel compensation was $3,411,140 for the year ended 30 June 2023 (2022: $3,195,141).

d) Transactions with related parties (i) Controlled Entities

In thousands of dollars 2023 2022 Rental charges for the year from Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) in relation to RFDS (QLD) Services Limited renting the Mobile Dental Unit

Balance outstanding at year end in relation to intercompany loan from RFDS (QLD) Services Limited (306,860)

to Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) for Management and Board support from RFDS (QLD) Services Limited

Balance of loan owing from Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) to RFDS Foundation Limited* (18,738,000) (2,700,000) Interest paid on loan owing from Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) to RFDS Foundation Limited*

charged by Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) to RFDS Foundation Limited

Bequest payable to RFDS Foundation Limited from Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section)

Amount distributed to Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) from RFDS Foundation Limited under current spending policy (1,990,000) (1,920,000)

* On 7 December 2021, RFDS Foundation Limited entered into two loan facility agreements for $20,000,000 each with RFDS (Queensland Section) to support the ongoing capital commitments of the latter. These facilities are unsecured with a term of 5 and 10 years and with fixed interest rates of 1.4% and 2.08%, respectively. As at 30 June 2023, $20,000,000 (2022: $3,000,000) has been drawn down on the 5-year loan, with $3,041,668 being repaid during the year. $2,400,000 has been drawdown on the 10-year loan in the current year with $620,000 repaid to date.

(ii) Transactions with Director related entities

During the year, $95,665 (2022: $244,368) was paid to BDO a firm of which Mr Russell Postle (Chairman) is a consultant. Fees charged on an arm’s length basis for providing of consulting and corporate advisory services.

25. Subsequent events

In the interval between the end of the financial year and the date of this report, a $10 million loan facility was established to support the capital acquisitions and operational cashflow requirements of Consolidated Service. At the date of this report, no drawdown was made against this facility.

Notes to the financial statements > cont.

26. Group Entities

27. Auditors Remuneration

28. Significant accounting policies

The significant accounting policies set out below have been consistently applied by the Consolidated Service to all periods presented in these Consolidated Financial Statements.

a) Basis of measurement

The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis except for equities and managed funds which are measured at fair value through profit or loss.

b) Basis of consolidation

Subsidiaries

The Consolidated Service controls an entity when it is exposed to or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity.

Controlled entities are consolidated from the date on which control commences until the date control ceases.

Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains or losses on transactions between Consolidated Service entities are eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Consolidated Service.

c) Foreign currency transactions

Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated to Australian dollars at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the surplus or deficit. Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction.

d) Property, plant and equipment

Owned assets

Items of property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation (see below) and impairment losses.

Where parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items of property, plant and equipment.

Subsequent costs

The Consolidated Service recognises in the carrying amount of an item of property, plant and equipment the cost of replacing part of such an item when that cost is incurred if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the item will flow to the Consolidated Service and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other costs are recognised in the surplus or deficit as incurred.

Depreciation

With the exception of freehold land, depreciation is charged on a straight line or units of use method over the estimated useful lives of each part of an item of property, plant and equipment. Land is not depreciated. Expenditure on the major overhaul of aircraft engines is capitalised and depreciated over the estimated effective useful life of the engine.

e) Financial assets

Recognition and initial measurement

Trade receivables and other receivables issued are initially recognised when they are originated. All other financial assets and financial liabilities are initially recognised when the Consolidated Service becomes a party to contractual provisions of the instrument.

A financial asset (unless it is a trade receivable without a significant financing component) or financial liability is initially measured at fair value plus, for an item not at fair value through profit and loss (FVTPL) transaction costs that are directly attributable to its acquisition or issue. A trade receivable without a significant financing component is initially measured at the transaction price.

(i) Classification and subsequent measurement

On initial recognition, a financial asset is classified and measured at: amortised cost; fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI) – debt investment; FVOCI – equity investment; or FVTPL.

Financial assets are not reclassified subsequently from their initial recognition unless the Consolidated Service changes its business model for managing financial assets, in which case all affected financial assets are reclassified on the first day of the first reporting period following the change in the business model.

A financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both of the following conditions and is not designated as at FVTPL:

> It is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flow and selling financial assets; and

> Its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

On initial recognition of an equity investment that is not held for trading, the Consolidated Service may irrevocably elect to present subsequent changes in the investment’s fair value in OCI. This election is made on an investmentby-investment basis.

All financial assets not classified as measured at amortised cost or FVOCI as described above are measured at FVTPL. This includes all derivative financial assets. On initial recognition, the Consolidated Service may irrevocably designate a financial asset that otherwise meets the requirements to be measured at amortised cost or at FVOCI as at FVTPL if doing so eliminates or significantly reduces an accounting mismatch that would otherwise arise.

(ii)

Financial assets — Business model assessment

The Consolidated Service makes an assessment of the objective of the business model in which a financial asset is held at a portfolio level because this best reflects the way the business is managed and information is provided to management. The information considered includes:

> the stated policies and objectives for the portfolio and the operation of those policies in practice. These include whether management’s strategy focuses on earning contractual interest income, maintaining a particular interest rate profile, matching the duration of the financial assets to the duration of any related liabilities or expected cash outflows or realising cash flows through the sale of the assets:

> how the performance of the portfolio is evaluated and reported to the Consolidated Service’s management;

> the risks that affect the performance of the business model (and the financial assets held within that business model) and how those risks are managed; and

> the frequency, volume and timing of sales of financial assets, the reasons for such sales and expectations about future sales activity.

Notes to the financial statements > cont.

Financial assets that are held for trading or are managed and whose performance is evaluated on a fair value basis are measured at FVTPL.

(iii) Financial assets — Assessment whether contractual cash flows are solely payments of principal and Interest

For the purposes of this assessment, ‘principal’ is defined as the fair value of the financial asset on initial recognition. ‘Interest’ is defined as consideration for the time value of money and for the credit risk associated with the principal amount outstanding during a particular period of time and for other basic lending risks and costs (e.g. liquidity risk and administrative costs), as well as a profit margin.

In assessing whether the contractual cash flows are solely payments of principal and interest, the Consolidated Service considers the contractual terms of the instrument. This includes assessing whether the financial asset contains a contractual term that could change the timing or amount of contractual cash flows such that it would not meet this condition. In making this assessment, the Consolidated Service considers:

> contingent events that would change the amount or timing of cash flows;

> terms that may adjust the contractual coupon rate, including variable-rate features;

> prepayment and extension features; and

> terms that limit the Consolidated Service’s claim to cash flows from specified assets (e.g. non-recourse features).

Subsequent measurement and gains and losses

(iv) Financial assets at FVTPL

These assets are subsequently measured at fair value. Net gains and losses, including interest or dividend income, are recognised in profit or loss

(v) Financial assets at amortised cost

These assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The amortised cost is reduced by impairment losses. Interest income, foreign exchange gains and losses and impairment are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on derecognition is recognised in profit or loss.

(vi) Debt investment at FVOCI

These assets are subsequently measured at fair value. Interest income calculated using the effective interest method, foreign exchange gains and losses and impairments are recognised in profit or loss. Other net gains and losses are recognised in OCI. On derecognition, gains and losses accumulated in OCI are reclassified to profit or loss

(vii) Equity investment at FVOCI

These assets are subsequently measured at fair value. Dividends are recognised as income in profit or loss unless the dividend clearly represents a recovery of part of the cost of the investment. Other net gains and losses are recognised in OCI and are never reclassified to profit or loss.

(viii) Derecognition

The Consolidated Service derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial asset expire, or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flows in a transaction in which substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset are transferred or in which the Consolidated Service neither transfers nor retains substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership and it does not retain control of the financial asset.

f) Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and current replacement cost. Current replacement cost is the cost the Consolidated Service would incur to acquire the asset on the reporting date.

Costs are assigned on a first-in first-out principle and include expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories and bringing them to their existing location and condition.

g) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances, short term bills and call deposits held for less than three months. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the Consolidated Service’s cash management are included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the statement of cash flows.

h) Impairment

(i) Financial assets

The Consolidated Service recognises loss allowances for Expected Credit Losses (ECLs) on:

> financial assets measured at amortised cost; and

> debt investments measured at FVOCI.

The Consolidated Service measures loss allowances at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs, except for the following, which are measured at 12-month ECLs:

> debt securities that are determined to have low credit risk at the reporting date; and

> other debt securities and bank balances for which credit risk (i.e. the risk of default occurring over the expected life of the financial instrument) has not increased significantly since initial recognition.

Loss allowances for trade receivables are always measured at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs. When determining whether the credit risk of a financial asset has increased significantly since initial recognition and when estimating ECLs, the Consolidated Service considers reasonable and supportable information that is relevant and available without undue cost or effort. This includes both quantitative and qualitative information and analysis, based on the Consolidated Service’s historical experience and informed credit assessment and including forward-looking information.

The Consolidated Service assumes that the credit risk on a financial asset has increased significantly if it is more than 180 days past due. The maximum period considered when estimating ECLs is the maximum contractual period over which the Consolidated Service is exposed to credit risk.

Measurement of ECLs

ECLs are a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses. Credit losses are measured as the present value of all cash shortfalls (i.e. the difference between the cash flows due to the entity in accordance with the contract and the cash flows that the Consolidated Service expects to receive).

ECLs are discounted at the effective interest rate of the financial asset.

Presentation of allowance for ECL in the statement of financial position

Loss allowances for financial assets measured at amortised cost are deducted from the gross carrying amount of the assets.

(ii) Non-financial assets

At each reporting date, the Consolidated Services reviews the carrying amounts of its non-financial assets (other than inventories and contract assets) to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, then the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. Goodwill is tested annually for impairment.

For impairment testing, assets are grouped together into the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows from continuing use that are largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or CGUs.

The recoverable amount of an assets or CGU is the great of its value in use and its fair value less costs to sell.

Vale in use is based on the estimated future cash flows, discounted to their present value using a pre- tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset of CGU.

An impairment loss is recognised if the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount.

Impairment losses are recognised in profit or loss. They are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the CGU, and then to reduce the carrying amounts of the other assets in the CGU on a pro rata basis.

i) Employee benefits

Defined contribution superannuation funds

Obligations for contributions to defined contribution superannuation funds are recognised as an expense as incurred.

Long-term service benefits

The Consolidated Service’s net obligation in respect of long-term service benefits is the amount of future benefit that employees have earned in return for their service in the current and prior periods. The obligation is calculated using expected future increases in wage and salary rates including related on-costs and expected settlement dates, and is discounted using the rates attached to Corporate Bonds at reporting date which have maturity dates approximating to the terms of the Consolidated Service’s obligations.

Notes to the financial statements > cont.

Wages, salaries and annual leave

Liabilities for employee benefits for wages, salaries and annual leave that are expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date represent present obligations resulting from employees’ services provided to reporting date, are calculated at undiscounted amounts based on wage and salary rates that the Consolidated Service expects to pay as at reporting date including related on-costs, such as workers compensation insurance and superannuation.

j) Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables are stated at their amortised cost. Trade payables are non-interest bearing and are normally settled on 30 day terms.

k) Loans and borrowings

Loans and borrowings are recognised initially at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, the financial liabilities are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

l) Revenue and income

Revenue recognition policy for revenue from contracts with customers (AASB 15)

AASB 15 requires revenue to be recognised when control of a promised good or service is passed to the customer at an amount which reflects the expected consideration.

The customer for these contracts is the funding provider. Revenue is recognised by applying a five-step model as follows:

1. Identify the contract with the customer

2. Identify the performance obligations

3. Determine the transaction price

4. Allocate the transaction price

5. Recognise revenue

Generally the timing of the payment for sale of goods and rendering of services corresponds closely to the timing of satisfaction of the performance obligations, however where there is a difference, it will result in the recognition of a receivable, contract asset or contract liability.

None of the revenue streams of the Consolidated Service have any significant financing terms as there is less than 12 months between receipt of funds and satisfaction of performance obligations.

Services rendered

Revenue for providing medical services and transportation of patients consists of a fixed and variable component (number of flying hours). The revenue is recognised when the service is provided.

Grant income

Grant income arising from an agreement which contains enforceable and sufficiently specific performance obligations is recognised when control of each performance obligations is satisfied.

The performance obligations are varied based on the agreement. Payment terms vary depending on the terms of the grant, cash is received upfront for some grants and on the achievement of certain payment milestones for others.

Each performance obligation is considered to ensure that the revenue recognition reflects the transfer of control and within grant agreements there may be some performance obligations where control transfers at a point in time and others which have continuous transfer of control over the life of the contract.

Where control is transferred over time, generally the input method being costs, time or flying hours incurred are deemed the to be the most appropriate methods to reflect the transfer of benefit.

Sale of goods

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when the control of goods passes to the customer, which is at the time that the goods are physically transferred.

None of the items sold have any warranty attached to them.

Grant income

Assets arising from grants in the scope of AASB 1058 are recognised at their fair value when the asset is received. These assets are generally cash but may be property which has been donated or sold to the Consolidated Service at significantly below its fair value.

The Consolidated Service considers whether there are any related liability or equity items associated with the asset which are recognised in accordance with the relevant accounting standard.

Once the assets and liabilities have been recognised then income is recognised for any difference between the recorded asset and liability.

Donations

Donations collected, including cash and goods for resale, are recognised as revenue when the Consolidated Service gains control of the asset.

Bequests

Bequests are recognised when the company is notified of an impending distribution or the bequest is received, whichever occurs earlier.

Bequests of shares or other assets are recognised at fair value, being the market value of the shares or asset at the date the Consolidated Service becomes legally entitled to the shares or asset.

Significant estimates and judgements relating to revenue

For many of the grant agreements received, the determination of whether the contract includes sufficiently specific performance obligations was a significant judgement involving discussions with several parties at the Consolidated Service, review of the proposal documents prepared during the grant application phase and consideration of the terms and conditions.

Grants received by the Consolidated Service have been accounted for under both AASB 15 and AASB 1058 depending on the terms and conditions and decisions made.

Net financing income

Net financing income comprises interest receivable on funds invested, dividend and distribution income, changes in fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss income and foreign exchange gains and losses.

Interest income is recognised as it accrues, using the effective interest method. Dividend and distribution income is recognised on the date the Consolidated Service’s right to receive payment is established which in the case of quoted securities is ex-dividend date.

m) Expenses

All expenditure is accounted for on an accrual basis.

Health costs are those costs directly incurred to provide care to patients.

Program costs are those costs directly incurred in providing programs to support the objectives of the Consolidated Service other than those specified.

Administration costs are those incurred in connection with administration of the Consolidated Service and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.

n) Income tax

The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section), due to the nature of its activities, has been granted an exemption from the payment of income tax under Section 50 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.

o) Goods and services tax

Revenue, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of goods and services tax (GST), except where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation Office. In these circumstances, the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense.

Receivables and payables are stated with the amount of GST included. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the ATO is included as a current asset or liability in the balance sheet.

Cash flows are included in the statement of cash flows on a gross basis. The GST components of cash flows arising from investing and financing activities which are recoverable from, or payable to, the ATO are classified as operating cash flows.

p)

Foreign currency risk and derivative financial instruments

The Consolidated Service uses derivative financial instruments such as forward foreign currency contracts to hedge its risks associated with the forward purchase of aircraft in USD. Derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at fair value and remeasured at each balance date. The gain or loss on re- measurement to fair value is recognised in profit or loss.

The Consolidated Service also holds USD bank accounts and USD term deposits to hedge against this risk totalling USD 187,367 at 30 June 2023 (2022: USD 5,407,652).

The USD year end exchange rates at the current and prior year were: 2023: 0.6630 (2022: 0.6889).

Notes to the financial statements >

q) Leases

At inception of a contract, the Consolidated Service assesses whether a lease exists – i.e. does the contract convey the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.

This involves an assessment of whether:

> The contract involves the use of an identified asset – this may be explicitly or implicitly identified within the agreement. If the supplier has a substantive substitution right, then there is no identified asset.

> The Consolidated Service has the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from the use of the asset throughout the period of use.

> The Consolidated Service has the right to direct the use of the asset i.e. decision-making rights in relation to changing how and for what purpose the asset is used.

The Consolidated Service has elected not to separate non-lease components from lease components have accounted for all leases as a single component.

At the lease commencement, the Consolidated Service recognises a right-of-use asset and associated lease liability for the lease term. The lease term includes extension periods where the Consolidated Service believes it is reasonably certain that the option will be exercised.

The right-of-use asset is measured using the cost model where cost on initial recognition comprises of the lease liability, initial direct costs, prepaid lease payments, estimated cost of removal and restoration less any lease incentives.

The right-of-use asset is depreciated over the lease term on a straight-line basis and assessed for impairment in accordance with the impairment of assets accounting policy. The right-of-use asset is assessed for impairment indicators at each reporting date.

The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments at the commencement of the lease. The discount rate is the rate implicit in the lease, however where this cannot be readily determined then the Consolidated Service’s incremental borrowing rate is used.

Subsequent to initial recognition, the lease liability is measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method. The lease liability is remeasured when there is a lease modification, change in estimate of the lease term or index upon which the lease payments are based (e.g. CPI) or a change in the Consolidated Service’s assessment of lease term.

Where the lease liability is remeasured, the right-of-use asset is adjusted to reflect the remeasurement or is recorded in profit or loss if the carrying amount of the right-of-use asset has been reduced to zero.

The Consolidated Service has elected to apply the exceptions to lease accounting for leases of low-value assets. For these leases, the Consolidated Service recognises the payments associated with these leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Significant estimates and judgements

Lease term – the Directors considered the extension option on the properties and have determined that due to the market rent reviews and the remaining term of the non-cancellable lease term, it was expected that the Consolidated Service will choose to exercise the option to extend the majority of the lease term and therefore the lease payments that would arise during the optional extension periods have been included in the lease liability.

Details of leasing arrangements

1. Properties

The Consolidated Service leases hangars and office buildings throughout the state for operational purposes, these leases have varying terms dependent on the location from 3 to 15 years.

2. Vehicles

The Consolidated Service leases vehicles which are used by medical staff to visit patients in regional areas, the lease terms vary from 2-5 years and the lease payments are fixed during the lease term.

Lease payments for operating leases, where substantially all the risks and benefits remain with the lessor are charged to profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.

r) Members’ liability

The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) is incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001 as a Consolidated Service limited by guarantee. In the event of the Consolidated Service being wound up, the liability of each of the members is limited to two dollars.

s) New standards and interpretations issued

The Consolidated Service has consistently applied the accounting policies set out in Note 27 to all periods presented in these financial statements.

The Australian Accounting Standards and Interpretations that have recently been issued or amended but are not yet mandatory, have not been early adopted by the Service for the annual reporting period ended 30 June 2023. The Service has not yet assessed the impact of these new or amended Accounting Standards and Interpretations.

t) New standards and interpretations issued but not yet effective

The Australian Accounting Standards and Interpretations that have recently been issued or amended but are not mandatory, have not been early adopted by the Consolidated Service for the annual reporting period ended 30 June 2023. The Consolidated Service has not yet assessed the impact of these new or amended Accounting Standards and Interpretations.

Directors’ declaration

In the opinion of the directors of the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) (‘the Service’):

(a) (a) the Service is not publicly accountable;

(b) the financial statements and notes that are set out on pages 11 to 30 are in accordance with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, including:

(i) giving a true and fair view of the Consolidated Service’s financial position as at 30 June 2023, and of its performance, for the financial year ended on that date; and

(ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Regulations 2022; and

(c) there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Consolidated Service will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors:

Dated at Brisbane 28th day of September 2023.

Mr R Postle

Mr M Gray Chair Chair Finance, Risk and Audit Committee

Independent auditor’s report

To the members of Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section)

Opinion

We have audited the consolidated Financial Report of Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) (the Consolidated Service Financial Report). We have also audited the Financial Report of Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) (the Service Financial Report).

In our opinion, each of the accompanying Consolidated Service Financial Report and the Service Financial Report of Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) are in accordance with Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) Act 2012, including:

> giving a true and fair view of the Consolidated Service’s and of the Service’s financial position as at 30 June 2023 and of its financial performance and its cash flows for the year ended on that date; and

> complying with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures Framework and Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Regulations 2022 (ACNCR).

The respective Financial Reports of the Consolidated Service and the Service comprises:

> Statements of financial position as at 30 June 2023

> Statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, Statements of changes in equity, and Statements of cash flows for the year then ended

> Notes including a summary of significant accounting policies

> Directors’ Declaration.

The Consolidated Service consists of Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) (the Service) and the entities it controlled at the period-end or from time to time during the financial year.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audits in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinions.

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audits of the Financial Reports section of our report.

We are independent of the Consolidated Service and the Service in accordance with the auditor independence requirements of the ACNC Act 2012 and the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including Independence Standards) (the Code) that are relevant to our audits of the Financial Reports in Australia. We have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.

Other Information

Other Information is financial and non-financial information in Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section’s) annual reporting which is provided in addition to the Financial Reports and the Auditor’s Report. The Directors are responsible for the Other Information.

Our opinions on the Financial Reports do not cover the Other Information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audits of the Financial Reports, our responsibility is to read the Other Information. In doing so, we consider whether the Other Information is materially inconsistent with the Financial Reports or our knowledge obtained in the audits, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

We are required to report if we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this Other Information, and based on the work we have performed on the Other Information that we obtained prior to the date of this Auditor’s Report we have nothing to report.

Responsibilities of the Directors for the Financial Reports

The Directors are responsible for:

i. Preparing the Financial Reports that give a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards - Simplified Disclosures Framework and the ACNC and ACNCR.

ii. Implementing necessary internal control to enable the preparation of Financial Reports that give a true and fair view and are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

iii. Assessing the Consolidated Service’s and the Service’s ability to continue as a going concern and whether the use of the going concern basis of accounting is appropriate. This includes disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless they either intend to liquidate the Consolidated Service and the Service or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Reports

Our objective is:

i. to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the Financial Reports as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and ii. to issue an Auditor’s Report that includes our opinions.

Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.

Misstatements can arise from fraud or error. They are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of the Financial Reports.

As part of an audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards, we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.

We also:

i. Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the Financial Reports, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinions. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

ii. Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audits in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Consolidated Service’s and the Service’s internal control.

iii. Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the Directors.

iv. Conclude on the appropriateness of the Directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Consolidated Service’s and the Service’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our Auditor’s Report to the related disclosures in the Financial Reports or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our Auditor’s Report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Consolidated Service and the Service to cease to continue as a going concern.

v. Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the Financial Reports, including the disclosures, and whether the Financial Reports represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

We communicate with the Directors of the Consolidated Service and the Service regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audits and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audits.

KPMG

Simon Crane Partner

Brisbane 28 September 2022

Lead auditor’s independence declaration

Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration under Subdivision 60-C section 60-40 of Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012

To the Directors of the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section)

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit of Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) for the financial year ended 30 June 2023 there have been:

i. no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Australian Charities and notfor-profits Commission Act 2012 in relation to the audit; and

ii. no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

Simon Crane Partner

Brisbane 28 September 2022

KPMG

How you can help

Donations from individuals, community groups, businesses and the corporate sector help fund our emergency aeromedical retrievals and primary health care services across Queensland.

Supporting us ensures that the Flying Doctor can always be there when someone is in need – with more than 219 occasions of care each day across regional, rural and remote Queensland.

Whether someone is on a remote outback station, in a regional city, or travelling anywhere in the state, the Flying Doctor is there to provide the finest care to the furthest corner.

The money donated to the RFDS helps to:

> buy vital medical equipment

> purchase and fit-out aircraft

> develop and deliver a range of outback and rural health programs

RFDSQld @RFDSQld @RFDSQld

Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia

RFDS Bases

Brisbane Base

12 Casuarina Street

Brisbane Airport QLD 4008

T 07 3860 1100

F 07 3860 1122

E rfds_bne@rfdsqld.com.au

Bundaberg Base

Aeromedical Hangar

20 Aviation Crescent

Kensington QLD 4670

T 07 4131 3000

F 07 4155 2372

E rfds_bdb@rfdsqld.com.au

Cairns Base

Royal Flying Doctor Street

General Aviation

Cairns Airport QLD 4870

T 07 4040 0444

F 07 4040 0199

E rfds_cns@rfdsqld.com.au

Charleville Base

John Flynn Way

Charleville QLD 4470

T 07 4654 1233

F 07 4654 1629

E rfds_cvl@rfdsqld.com.au

Longreach Base

137 B and C Eagle Street

Longreach QLD 4730

T 07 4652 5800

F 07 4652 5899

E rfds_lng@rfdsqld.com.au

Mount Isa Base

11 Barkly Highway

Mount Isa QLD 4825

T 07 4743 2800

F 07 4743 0521

E rfds_mtisa@rfdsqld.com.au

Rockhampton Base

Hangar 5, Aviation Drive

Rockhampton QLD 4700

T 07 4921 2221

F 07 4921 2277

E rfds_rok@rfdsqld.com.au

Roma Base

RFDS Hangar

Roma Airport QLD 4055

T 07 4624 4500

F 07 4624 4504

E rfds_roma@rfdsqld.com.au

Townsville Base

Hangar 117

Corner Gypsy Moth Court and Viscount Drive

Townsville Airport QLD 4810

T 07 4775 3111

F 07 4775 3511

E rfds_tsv@rfdsqld.com.au