The vital work of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has received a $140,000 boost thanks to generous NSW residents who donated their refunds from recycling bottles and cans through Return and Earn.
RFDS, which provides accessible and equitable healthcare to rural, regional and remote NSW, was added as a listed charity to Return and Earn early last year.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said this was an impressive achievement, particularly considering lockdown restrictions.
“The Flying Doctors deliver vital healthcare to outback communities and $140,000 will make a real difference to the important services they provide,” Mr Saunders said.
“It’s great to see so many people in our community support such an important cause while at the same time helping the environment.”
The additional funds came to the Royal Flying Doctor Service at a time of particular need.
“With the COVID-19 pandemic there has been even greater demand for their critical work. This work goes beyond outback emergency retrievals, extending to GP clinics, mental and dental health, breast care, and chronic disease screening,” Mr Saunders added.
Recyclers in NSW can continue to support RFDS by donating their 10 cent refunds at any Return and Earn machine in NSW using the myTOMRA app’s charity option.
RFDS South Eastern Section (RFDSSE) Chief Medical Officer, Dr Randall Greenberg said he appreciated the community’s support and recycling efforts.
“On behalf of everyone at the RFDSSE, we would like to say a massive thank you to all the recyclers who donated to the Flying Doctor using Return and Earn,” he said.
“The pandemic has had a significant impact on rural and remote communities and the $140,000 funds raised through recycling means the Flying Doctor can continue bringing healthcare to outback families and communities who need it most.”
