The RFDS Local Hero Awards has launched and Queensland residents are encouraged to nominate those outstanding members of their community who tirelessly and selflessly support the work of the Flying Doctor in their region.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) CEO Nino Di Marco said the RFDS was grateful for the wonderful community members and volunteers across Queensland who worked behind the scenes to support the work of the Flying Doctor teams.
"They are behind every Flying Doctor story in every Queensland town and we need the communities to help recognise the continued support of the good samaritans, fundraisers and volunteers," Mr Di Marco said.
"Without these hidden heroes we wouldn't be able to continue to help over 295,000 Queenslanders every year.
"I would also like to thank the major partners of the Local Hero Awards, Ergon Energy Retail and Seven Queensland. Without their support, we would not be able to bring out the hidden heroes of the Flying Doctor."
Ergon Energy Retail customers and employees have been supporting the work of the Flying Doctor in Queensland for more than 16 years. Executive General Manager of Ergon Energy Retail, Cheryl Hopkins said the business was proud to extend its support to recognise the outstanding efforts of regional Queenslanders through these awards.
"The RFDS is a lifeline for regional communities however we recognise they couldn't do their work without the support of these hidden heroes within our local communities who often fly under the radar. That's why we are so pleased to be supporting the RFDS Local Hero Awards for a second consecutive year to help unearth and celebrate these local heroes," Ms Hopkins said.
One of the Local Hero finalists will also be named the RFDS Queensland Hero for 2017 and will receive a $5,000 grant to spend on health and wellbeing in their local community.
Award nominations are open from 6 March to 3 April, 2017 and can be made online by visiting www.rfdslocalhero.com.au or by obtaining an entry form at an RFDS Base.
Nominees can include individuals, families and community groups, and self-nominations will also be considered. Award recipients will be announced at a morning tea on Flying Doctor Day, Wednesday May 17, 2017 at their local RFDS Base.
For further information and photos please contact localhero@rfdsqld.com.au or call 0407 595 014.
