The 2020 RFDS Queensland Hero is Bede Little, a first responder who has also fundraised for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) (RFDS).
Every year, the RFDS recognises Queenslanders who donate their time and energy to keep the Flying Doctor in the air and assisting the communities which need it the most.
Nine individuals or groups – each representing a RFDS base location – were last month named the RFDS Local Hero Award winners for 2020.
Community members were then encouraged to vote for the Queensland Hero. Mr Little, who was the Local Hero for the Longreach region, was today announced as the statewide winner.
Bede Little, the Queensland Police Service Senior Constable for Ilfracombe in Central Queensland, loves his work and has the outback in his blood.
Often the first on scene of an accident, he is used to helping others. On one such occasion he helped the pilot of a small plane which stalled mid-air. Fortunately for the person in the aircraft, Mr Little was able to assist until the RFDS arrived.
His work in the community extends much further than policing due to the remote nature of his beat and the struggles experienced across the region due to drought.
Last year, Mr Little, along with a few key community members, organised a family fun day as a way to unite the community, boost morale and open up a conversation around mental health. Representatives of the RFDS Outback Mental Health team were invited to speak with attendees.
In addition to hosting stalls showcasing local wares, activities and competitions, the event raised $4,000 for the RFDS.
RFDS (Queensland Section) CEO Meredith Staib congratulated Mr Little on being named the 2020 RFDS Queensland Hero.
“This year’s RFDS Local Hero Award winners were an especially inspiring group of Queenslanders,” she said.
“To be judged our Queensland Hero by way of public vote is a testament to the impact which Mr Little has no doubt had on his community.
“Mr Little’s actions also clearly resonated with the wider voting public, as community members statewide learnt more about his story via the Local Hero website.
“I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who voted and in doing so, took the time to acknowledge the wonderful work of our supporters.”
Mr Little will now receive a $7,500 grant, courtesy of Ergon Energy Retail, to give back to his community through delivery of a healthcare initiative.
Ergon Energy Retail Executive General Manager Ayesha Razzaq said the chance to recognise the dedicated work of Queensland volunteers was a real highlight after what’s been a tough year for so many.
“The work done by Bede exemplifies the spirit of mateship at a time when looking after community has never been more important,” she said.
“Ergon Energy Retail is so proud to support this award which is now in its fifth year and I would like to thank the amazing collection of Queenslanders who do so much to keep the RFDS in the air.”
The annual awards are proudly supported by Ergon Energy Retail, Seven News Queensland and Queensland Country Life.
