News

Dr Sophie Ootes pictured next to RFDS aircraft

From Ballarat to the bush: How Dr Sophie Ootes found her calling in rural health

24 Nov 2025

When Dr Sophie Ootes received the RACGP South Australian GP in Training of the Year Award, she wasn’t just accepting a personal accolade – she was representing a voice for rural and remote communities across the state.

More details
27 Jan 2021

Rosemary’s family needed the Flying Doctor

Rosemary’s family needed the Flying Doctor, now she donates to help other families get the care they need

Rosemary
27 Jan 2021

Send in your snaps

Whether it’s a spectacular shot of the Flying Doctor in the Australian outback, an emotional time when the Flying Doctor has been there for you or a loved one, or a fun picture that captures a special moment at our Dubbo or Broken Hill Visitor Experience, we want to see your snaps and hear the story

RFDS VE
27 Jan 2021

You can help us bring safe-tea to the outback!

This year we are launching a new community event, ‘The Outback Morning Tea’ to raise vital funds to bring healthcare to those living in rural, regional, and remote Australia. You can join with your friends and family and hold a morning tea to support the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

OMT
27 Jan 2021

Critical care for a genetic heart condition

Tash Yeo’s concerned friend urged her to get a check-up at their local hospital when he noticed her heart was racing and she was out of breath.

Tash Yeo in hospital bed
19 Jan 2021

THE GIFT OF TIME: The profound effect a community had on their local GP

For RFDS (Queensland Section) GP Trainee Katrina Starmer, a recent gift from the Chillagoe community, was not just beautiful – but incredibly symbolic.

Dr Katrina Starmer and some members of the Chillagoe community
18 Jan 2021

Saving baby Kaleb

Baby Kaleb was only 10 days old when he became seriously ill in the midst of rising floodwaters in Biloela. His mum, Lori, took him to the local hospital. But Kaleb was so unwell that he needed intensive care – nearly 150km away.

Baby Kaleb
18 Jan 2021

New Study on RFDS Pregnancy Patients

New Study reveals one out of every 420 women who gave birth Australia-wide during 2015–2017 received an aeromedical retrieval by the RFDS

New Study Pregnancy
13 Jan 2021

Impact of COVID lockdown on aeromedical retrievals

New data released this week by Australian researchers reveals the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown period on aeromedical retrievals in rural and remote regions.

Loading a patient onto RFDS aircraft
12 Jan 2021

Caring for our rural and remote communities

In spite of everything that has happened over the past year, our generous community of supporters has enabled us to continue to help thousands of people in their time of need.

Caring for our rural and remote communities
11 Jan 2021

Learn about our RFDS Reconcilliation Journey

We are dedicated to ensuring our services contribute to the “Close the Gap” targets to improve both health outcomes and access to health services for First Nations Peoples. Find out more about the RFDS Reconciliation Journey and our Reconciliation Action Plan

RAP front cover
05 Jan 2021

Legal expert Kathleen Conroy answers the most frequently asked questions about writing a Will

Partner and Pro Bono Director of Gadens, Kathleen Conroy, shares useful advice to consider when writing a Will.

Kathleen Conroy provides advice on writing your will
04 Jan 2021

Visit our Brisbane Base from the comfort of your home!

During these uncertain times, planning a base tour can be difficult. But here at the RFDS (Queensland Section), we’ve found a way for you to visit our Brisbane Base without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Brisbane Base Tour
03 Jan 2021

24/7 service uninterrupted by Broome base fire

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (WA) is continuing its 24/7 service in the Kimberley despite a fire at its Broome base on Saturday night.

RFDS broome base