Life on remote cattle stations may be tough, but the RFDS (Queensland Section) is continuing to ensure that access to the finest care is one less worry for families across Queensland.
For Andrea and her family living at Retreat Station, nestled between Jundah and Windorah in the Barcoo Shire, having access to regular clinics and emergency retrieval services is crucial for their work and family life in this remote region.
“I often think, even though we live where many call ‘the middle of nowhere,’ we are very lucky to have some of the best health care services thanks to the RFDS,” Andrea said.
With a team of up to 25 staff members and contractors at the station at a time, there have been a few instances where the RFDS was called.
“Most of the time, we call for non-work-related incidents, like the occasional bike accident or car rollover,” Andrea said.
“Although we have had our share of stitches for fingers and a few bumps from run-ins with the cattle.
“We always believe it is better safe than sorry, so we don’t hesitate to reach out to the RFDS for advice.”
To prepare for emergencies, the RFDS conduct first aid training courses for station staff across the state, ensuring they can respond effectively until help arrives.
“Having the RFDS come to our station to lead first aid training was incredibly beneficial for us,” she said.
“They even provided an updated round of Q fever vaccinations during their visit.
“We truly appreciate their effort to keep us up to date with our health and training needs.”
The RFDS provides comprehensive healthcare services at a range of clinic locations to limit the distance people need to travel to receive general and specialist care.
As an expecting mother, Andrea was incredibly grateful to have access to prenatal care within 50 kilometres of her home. This meant regular check-ups and any concerns she had throughout her pregnancy would be looked after by the RFDS team.
“All my appointments during my pregnancy were at the local clinics in Jundah and Windorah with the RFDS team,” she said.
“With specialists often visiting, we are very well taken care of here in Western Queensland and incredibly lucky to have such excellent services so close to home.”
When it came time for Andrea to welcome her first child, Michael, she faced a daunting situation.
“After we got home from the hospital, my husband sensed something wasn’t right with the baby,” she said.
“As new parents, it was tough to know what was normal or not, but we decided to call the Flying Doctor.”
The RFDS team met them in Jundah and flew them to Toowoomba where they spent over a week in hospital with Michael, who had suspected pneumonia.
“If it hadn’t been for the exceptional team that night, who knows what could have happened,” Andrea said.
“The RFDS team provided incredible support, not just during the incident, but afterwards as well.
“We met several staff members who knew about Michael’s situation, and their genuine concern for his health and wellbeing made a lasting impact.”
Andrea finds comfort in knowing that dedicated, caring professionals are there to look after her family.
“We can’t thank the RFDS enough for all they have done and continue to do to support our family and countless others across rural and remote areas,” she said.
