Page 17 - Sphere No.22 (Aug 2008)

SPHERE 15
Clockwise from left: Peter Tulloch, Chairman of
ETSA Utilities, talks about the Li Ka Shing
Foundation funding for the RFDS healthcare
programme – “These communities are just
crying out for progress”; Children receiving
check-ups from RFDS staff, who travel huge
distances to reach remote communities.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
THE gradual development of Austra-
lia’s vast Outback was made easier
with the establishment of the world’s
first comprehensive aerial medical service.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS)
was established by a cleric, Reverend John
Flynn, in 1928. In its first year, it flew 28,000
kilometres, providing medical help to 255
patients and saving four lives.
Previously, serious illness or accident of-
ten meant death for those living, working or
travelling through the Outback. Many would
have lived had they received medical aid
quickly enough.
Today, the RFDS remains unique for the
range of primary health care and emergency
services it provides and for the huge area
of sparse population and climatic extremes
over which it operates – 24 hours a day, 365
days a year.
In its 80th year, the Flying Doctor will fly
more than 21 million kilometres and pro-
vide medical assistance to around 250,000
people – that’s one every two minutes.
The RFDS, a not-for-profit organisation, today:
• Operates 21 aircraft bases across Australia
• Manages six remote health facilities
• Maintains a fleet of 47 aircrafts, each
costing AUD6 million
• Employs a staff of more than 700
While supported by Australia’s national
and State governments, the Flying Doctor
relies heavily on fundraising initiatives and
the support of valued benefactors such as
the Li Ka Shing Foundation.
but lifestyle, exercise and diet