The Royal Flying Doctor Service (WA) is continuing its 24/7 service in the Kimberley despite a fire at its base in Broome on Saturday night, 2 January.
With the support of key health partners and local emergency services, the RFDS has been able to establish temporary patient facilities at another location at Broome International Airport.
No-one was hurt in the fire and no staff or patients were at the base at the time of the incident.
The RFDS service remains operational for all patients in the region.
RFDS CEO Rebecca Tomkinson said the safety of staff and patients is the RFDS’ top priority as the damage is assessed and alternative service arrangements put in place.
"We thank DFES and all our partners in the region who have been assisting us and acknowledge the efforts of our team to keep our essential service going for Western Australians," said Ms Tomkinson.
"The united response of RFDS crew in Broome and across the organisation following the fire has been incredible. There has been no impact to patient response during and since the incident, which has only been possible due to the incredible work ethic of our entire workforce."
The fire affected the main building at the Broome base which is used for treating patients, administration and storage of equipment and medical supplies. Damage to the adjacent hangar and aircraft was avoided.
The cause of the fire is not yet known. The RFDS Broome base remains closed to all visitors until further notice.
Telephone numbers and email contacts for the base remain unaffected.
Broome is the RFDS’ largest regional base outside Perth.
Contact
Rebecca Maddern, RFDS Head of Communications
M: 0437 724 116 | E: rebecca.maddern@rfdswa.com.au
