Queensland’s new high-tech aeromedical simulator is now open for business in one of the state’s fastest growing regions.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) (Queensland Section) Aeromedical Training Academy is located adjacent to the Bundaberg RFDS Base and houses the only Beechcraft King Air Pro Line Fusion Full-Flight Simulator (FFS) anywhere in Australia.
RFDS pilots from across Queensland will spend at least two weeks at the training facility each year, while non-RFDS pilots will also be able to use the simulator for their endorsements or recurrent training on all King Air variant B260/B350/B360 and B360Q aircraft.
The $28.8 million facility is jointly funded with $14.9 million from the Australian Government and $3 million from QCoal Foundation, while the land the facility is built on has been donated by Bundaberg Regional Council. The RFDS is financing the remainder of the project through fundraising.
RFDS (Queensland Section) CEO Meredith Staib said the opening of the Aeromedical Training Academy marks a significant milestone in the development of important infrastructure for the organisation as it fast approaches 100 years of life saving service.
“From humble beginnings back in 1928, the Royal Flying Doctor Service has grown to become the lifeblood of medical care and support in remote and regional Queensland,” Ms Staib said.
“The opening today of this brand-new facility wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of the Federal Government, the QCoal Foundation and Bundaberg Regional Council.
“It truly is an exciting day for everyone involved.”
Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm, said the Albanese Government’s contribution demonstrated its commitment to investing in health infrastructure across Queensland.
“We’re proud to have played a role in making this project a reality so the RFDS has the facilities they need to save lives in the future. This project highlights our commitment to delivering the services and infrastructure that regional, rural and remote communities need.”
“This new facility won’t just benefit the hundreds of people who receive care from the RFDS each year, it will also cement Bundaberg as a hub for regional healthcare and training in specialist services.”
QCoal Foundation Chair Christopher Wallin said the QCoal Foundation was proud of its role in delivering the innovative new training facility which will drive strong operational outcomes and support long-term sustainability for the RFDS.
“This world-leading facility extends QCoal Foundation’s long-standing partnership with the RFDS and aligns with our commitment to enhance the resilience of regional and remote Queensland communities,” Mr Wallin said.
“QCoal Foundation recognises the RFDS’s outstanding contribution right across Queensland and we look forward to celebrating strong outcomes from this new initiative.”
Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Helen Blackburn said she’s delighted the RFDS chose the Wide Bay to base the new facility.
“We are committed to the diversification of our region’s economy and were very pleased to donate the land for the new Aeromedical Training Academy, recognising the considerable contribution it will make to streamlining RFDS operations in the future,” Mayor Blackburn said.
