Small in stature, huge in heart – these two little heroes are among many junior supporters around Australia who are helping out their Flying Doctor.
There are two main ways to get involved – by registering a once-off community fundraiser with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) or by joining your local volunteer RFDS Support Group.
Cowboy Roy – Community Fundraiser
Two-year-old Cowboy Roy might not look like a literary sensation but that’s exactly what he is.
The kid from Wertaloona Station – 50 kilometres from Arkaroola in the Flinders Ranges – recently visited the RFDS Adelaide Base to share the success of his book, “Where Is Cowboy Roy’s Hat?”
Inspired by Roy and penned by his mum Anna, the family donated part proceeds of the book to the Flying Doctor. To date, more than 1200 copies have been sold.
"I was already 31 weeks’ pregnant with Roy when we moved to Wertaloona," Anna said.
"Once Roy arrived, we'd visit the local RFDS ‘fly-in’ health clinic once a month for general check-ups and weight checks. He's such an active kid, always running around – I'm worried we might have to see the RFDS in future for broken bones!"
A sequel to “Where Is Cowboy Roy’s Hat?” may be on the cards – in the meantime, you can snap up the remaining copies through cowboyroyadventures.com
Have a big idea? Discuss your community fundraiser with Kristen Newlyn on (08) 8238 3333 or kristen.newlyn@flyingdoctor.net
Jack Trader – Support Group Member
At age 8, Jack is the youngest active member of the RFDS Naracoorte & District Support Group. In the past 18 months, he has trialled some sure-fire ways through his group to have fun and support the Flying Doctor.
1. Grassroots fundraising – Jack kicked off his campaign by donating pocket money raised from mowing lawns.
2. Sweet treats – A good, old-fashioned volunteer stall at community events can be a money-spinner. Jack’s popcorn-and-milkshake stall at the local Christmas Pageant raised $360.
3. Spreading the word – Combining public speaking practice with a great cause, Jack has shared his love of the Flying Doctor with his fellow schoolmates.
Next up for Jack? Another group fundraising event this April, involving the RFDS aircraft simulator.
There are 24 volunteer RFDS Support Groups spanning South Australia and the Northern Territory. Find out more about our groups from Lindy Allchurch on (08) 8238 3333 or lindy.allchurch@flyingdoctor.net
