The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) has launched its inaugural Ambassador Program, which aims to bring communities together to shine a light on regional, rural and remote healthcare.
The RFDS Ambassador Program – Lighting the Way will see a range of people and organisations, who have a genuine affinity with the Flying Doctor advocate to improve the health and wellbeing of Queenslanders.
RFDS (Queensland Section) Chief Executive Officer Meredith Staib said, the Flying Doctor’s purpose remains as critical now as it was in 1928 and the Lighting the Way Program is designed to deepen the RFDS’ special connection with Queensland communities.
“Community is at the heart of the Flying Doctor and this program celebrates and strengthens our enduring partnership with the communities we serve,” Ms Staib said.
“Without the ongoing support of Queensland communities, we would not be able to provide the finest aeromedical and primary health care to the furthest corners of the state.”
“The Ambassador Program allows individuals and organisations who share our passion to recognise and champion our existing supporters, while motivating and inspiring others to join us on our mission,” she said.
Each RFDS Ambassador has committed to share their time, expertise, and public profile to help promote the Flying Doctor in Queensland and the work it does to connect communities to the finest healthcare services.
Inaugural RFDS Ambassador, the Hon. Bruce Scott AM, is no stranger to advocating for his community. He was the Federal Member for Maranoa from 1990 to 2016 and has also served on the RFDS (Queensland Section) board since 2016.
Mr Scott was inducted as an RFDS Ambassador last week with his first engagement at the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka).
Mr Scott says he is honoured to be a part of the RFDS Ambassador Program and to help the RFDS light the way as the organisation nears 100 years of operation.
“By raising awareness about the work RFDS does and building relationships with individuals and organisations that can support our efforts, we can inspire a new generation of RFDS supporters and continue to provide the finest care to the furthest corner,” Mr Scott said.
“As an RFDS Ambassador I’ll be out and about in Roma and surrounding Queensland communities, attending events, speaking with community groups and engaging with supporters,” he said.
“It’s the Queensland community who keep the Flying Doctor flying, whether that be through lighting airstrips, driving nurses to clinics or fundraising. Through this program we can thank these kind supporters for everything they do for the Flying Doctor and encourage others to join us on our mission as the RFDS nears it centenary,” Mr Scott said.
If you know someone who proudly advocates for the RFDS or improved healthcare in their community, please visit the website here to complete an Expression of Interest form.
