The official magazine of the Royal Flying Doctor Service QUEENSLAND SECTION • MAY 12 >
Queensland>
Special feature > RFDS helps with flood effort p4 Patient > The road to recovery p10 Profile > Bruce Waller: living life to the full p14
SUPPORTING THE ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE THROUGHOUT AUSTRALIA
F
rom stations to inner citycity airports the PC-12 operates day and night keeptothe romremote remoteoutback outback stations to inner airports the PC-12 operates day andto night keep the Flying Doctor air.twenty With 24 aeromedical PC-12s Flying Doctor in thein air.the With four aeromedical PC-12’sininoperation operationthroughout throughout Australia the
Royal Flying Doctor Service the Pilatus Pilatusfamily. family.We Weinvite inviteyou youtoto call the Royal Flying Doctor Serviceisisananindispensable indispensablemember member of of the andand findfind outout more information about call more information aboutthe thePC-12 PC-12aircraft. aircraft.
THE PC-12 NG
Pilatus Australia Pty Ltd. Tel: +61 8 8234 4433 www.pilatus.com.au
Welcome > Welcome to the May 2012 issue of Flying Doctor Queensland. This issue includes a selection of stories that reflect on the work of our talented and dedicated people committed |to delivering the best possible health care to rural and remote Queensland. Since I took up the role of General Manager - Marketing and Fundraising in March, I’ve heard a number of stories from people about how the RFDS has helped a friend or member of their family. If you have a story of your own that you would like to share with our readers, just like Nick Tompsett has done on p10, please contact us on (07) 3860 1100. We would love to hear from you.
IN THIS ISSUE >
> A message from the CEO A quarterly review from Nino Di Marco > Panorama Opening under the stars > Special feature RFDS helps with flood effort
> Join the Wings program Wings members take the RFDS to new heights > Panorama Captain Peter Brooke awarded Australia Day Medal
Jillian Marsh General Manager – Marketing and Fundraising
OUR SUPPORTERS >
> Spirit of Queensland Entrants show great spirit > Patient story The road to recovery > Profile story Bruce Waller: living life to the full
OUR PATRON > We are proud to have Her Excellency, Ms Penelope Wensley, AC, Governor of Queensland as our patron.
> How you can help Become a corporate partner > What’s on Upcoming events
CONTACT US > This magazine is produced by the Marketing and Fundraising Department of the RFDS in Queensland.
> Thank you for your donations Generous contributions to the RFDS
If you do not wish to receive future editions of this magazine, please contact the RFDS on (07) 3860 1100 or email: rfds_bne@rfdsqld.com.au > 12 Casuarina Street, BRISBANE AIRPORT QLD 4008 > Ph: (07) 3860 1100 > Fax: (07) 3860 1122 > www.flyingdoctor.org.au
2 3 4 6 7 9 10 14 16 18 19 20
> Panorama The Long Walk Home - Simpson Desert Crossing
> May 2012
1
Nino Di Marco CEO
Queensland Section
A message from the CEO
The start of the year saw severe flooding in the south west, a heartbreaking situation for families and communities that have been inundated repeatedly in recent years. The RFDS was heavily involved in the evacuation and later repatriation of patients from hospitals and nursing homes. On a happier note, in recent months the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) has celebrated two milestone occasions: the official opening of our new Base in Mount Isa and Bundaberg Base’s 10th anniversary. As well as being a significant community celebration, each occasion also reflected the importance of our partnerships with community, government and other service providers. We have seen a substantial increase in our activity in Mount Isa and Bundaberg, as in other parts of Queensland, over the past decade, and there is an ongoing need for quality health care across the state. Now, as we respond to the federal and state government health care reforms, we are working to ensure that the RFDS operates as efficiently and effectively as possible, so that we can continue to meet the needs of Queenslanders into the future.
Appointments The RFDS has recently made three significant appointments in order to achieve our strategic goals. Mr Ian Le Quesne has been appointed General Manager – Integrated Operations. With extensive experience in the development of multi-site operations and the execution of whole-of-business strategy and organisational integration across a range of industries and locations, Ian has the expertise to manage the hands-on challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for us. Ms Jillian Marsh has been appointed General Manager – Marketing and Fundraising. Jillian has worked in senior marketing roles across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors in Australia and internationally. In line with our strategic vision, we are continuing to develop innovative responses to the health care needs of Queenslanders. To this end, Townsville Base Manager David Mowat has taken on the role
2
> May 2012
CEO Nino Di Marco with RFDS supporter Denise Bassett at the Bundaberg Base 10th anniversary
…there is an ongoing need for quality health care across the state. of Project Manager – Oral Health, and will investigate the feasibility of developing new programs for the RFDS in this important area of health care. I am also pleased to welcome Professor Robert Stable to our Board of Directors. Robert has been a Member of the RFDS Professor Robert Stable since 1980, and was a Director from 1992 to 1996 when he resigned to prevent any conflicts of interest in his then new role of Director-General of Queensland Health. Robert relieved Dr Tim O’Leary in Charleville to give him some days off during 1978, and was the Senior Medical Officer at Port Augusta from January 1979 to July 1980.
Left to right: Steve de Kruijff and Brian Hearne from Xstrata Mount Isa Mines perform the official opening with Mark Gray, Chairman of the RFDS Board of Directors
A traditional smoking ceremony and welcome to country was given by Clive Sam (right) and his nephew Matthew Dick
Opening under the stars Eighty guests gathered under the stars to officially open the new RFDS Base at Mount Isa on Saturday 25 February.
In added news, the new Base was a “stand out winner” at the recent North Queensland Architectural awards, receiving a Regional Commendation and the Walter and Oliver Tunbridge Award for Building of the Year.
After a traditional smoking ceremony and welcome to country by Kalkadoon Elder Clive Sam, Senior Medical Officer Don Bowley told the gathering that the Mount Isa employees were pleased to be under one roof after many years of working from buildings that had been added in an ad hoc way since the Base opened in 1964.
The building’s architects were the Architectural Practice Academy (APA), an initiative of the Queensland Government Department of Public Works and the Australian Institute of Architects.
“It’s very conducive to team work,” he said, “and we now also have the potential for health professionals from other health care service providers to be co-located with us, which will lead to more cooperation and collaboration. This will be beneficial for our patients.” The official opening was performed by the Chairman of the RFDS (Queensland Section) Board of Directors Mark Gray, Xstrata Zinc Australia Chief Operating Officer Brian Hearne and Xstrata Copper North Queensland Chief Operating Officer Steve de Kruijff.
Mount Isa Volunteer Auxiliary
The new building was made possible with a generous donation of $2 million from Xstrata Mount Isa Mines and $2.7 million in funding through the Federal Government’s Health and Hospitals Fund and was constructed by Hutchinson Builders.
The community based celebration was the perfect venue for members of the RFDS Board to thank the Mount Isa Volunteer Auxiliary for their fundraising efforts which resulted in a cheque for $30,000 being presented to the RFDS late last year.
Left to right: Board member Dick Conder, pictured here with Auxiliary members Toni Neville, Joy Larchin and Dave Neville (OAM)
Hutchinson Builders donate $50,000 Contributing to the celebratory mood, Scott Hutchinson, Chairman of Hutchinson Builders, presented the RFDS with a donation of $50,000 at the opening. Project Manager Jon-Paul Floyd said it was a pleasure working with the RFDS constructing their new base in Mount Isa. “All the difficulties of working at an operating business were made much easier by the flexible and exceptional RFDS staff. We trust all the Base staff will enjoy working at the new award winning facility. Hutchinson Builders were glad to be able to donate $50,000 to assist the RFDS in maintaining its vital role in the community,” he said. RFDS (Queensland Section) CEO Nino Di Marco (left) accepts a cheque for $50,000 from Scott Hutchinson, Chairman of Hutchinson Builders
> May 2012
3
SPECIAL FEATURE >
Charleville Base
Levee
The Charleville levee withstood the torrent of water Levee
Charleville Base before the floods, showing the distance from the river
Charleville Base, with the floodwaters held at bay by the levee
RFDS helps with
Across the south western plains of Queensland, locals enjoy the popular swimming and camping spots along the peaceful Warrego and Maranoa Rivers. In late January, however, when the catchment areas received more heavy rainfall on top of an already excellent wet season, the normally sleepy rivers broke their banks, churning a pathway, kilometres wide in places, across the inland. It was a case of déjà vu for the flood-weary residents of towns including Charleville, Roma and Mitchell, after severe flooding affected the area in 2008, 2010 and 2011. In 2012, aware of what was to come, Queensland Health began to evacuate patients ahead of the crisis. RFDS Manager Line Operations Chris Wimpenny liaised directly with the State Medical Director of Retrieval Services Queensland (RSQ), Dr Mark Elcock. “They needed everything we could offer,” Chris said. “We drew aircraft and crews from Charleville, Rockhampton, Bundaberg and Brisbane and we had five aircraft working on the effort, around 75 percent of our capacity across the south and south west.” RFDS Nurse Manager Jackie Hardy assisted with managing the RFDS response. “Coordination was critical. We had to make sure that aircraft and crews were where they were needed, when they were needed. Contingency plans were in place to ensure that other bases would continue to be operational if fatigue became an issue,” she said. On Tuesday 30 January, the RFDS evacuated approximately 20 patients from the Charleville Hospital and Nursing Home. The tempo picked up over the following weekend as Roma and Mitchell went under water and
4
> May 2012
Charleville and St George prepared for the worst. Mandatory evacuations were ordered in St George, and anxious residents in Charleville could only hope that the Charleville levee could hold the weight of water behind it. The RFDS Flood Management Plan was activated in Charleville, with a number of employees moving temporarily into motel accommodation close to the airport, so that service delivery would not be affected by people being cut off by the rising floodwaters. “Despite the fact that many were personally affected by the floods, our employees were determined to deliver whatever was needed, whether it was our usual programs or our response to the crisis,” Chris said. “Everyone threw themselves into keeping our aircraft in the air over the weekend. People who weren’t flying were helping with loading, refuelling, restocking medical supplies on the aircraft and providing meals. It was a brilliant team effort.”
Coordination was critical. We had to make sure that aircraft and crews were where they were needed, when they were needed.
Sailing the streets, not skies Normally at home sailing through the skies, Primary Health Care Line Pilot and Team Leader Matt Joppich worked with a swift water rescue worker for more than five hours on Friday 3 February, helping around 30 residents of Roma to escape the rising floodwaters. Many people were caught out by the rate at which Bungil Creek rose. The first flood alert predicted a 7.5 metre peak, but only hours later that was revised to over 8 metres.
Line Pilot and Team Leader Matt Joppich, in orange jacket, assisted with the flood effort in Roma on Friday 3 February
flood effort Charleville Base Acting Senior Medical Officer Emma Leu-Marshall said that while she and a number of other employees were affected, their main concern was for those who were coping with the floods. “They showed tremendous strength and resilience,” she said, “as did the patients who needed to be moved to safety.” Being able to help those in need made it all worthwhile according to Nurse Manager Jo Mahony. “Each of us knew people personally affected both in the towns and on the surrounding properties, and knew how much damage and cleaning up they would be facing in the days, weeks and months ahead. Being able to provide support in both the critical phase and in the long recovery makes working for the RFDS worthwhile.”
“People immediately began to try to move their belongings even higher,” Matt said, “and were caught because the water rose so quickly.”
RFDS flights criss-crossed the south west, moving patients from Charleville, Barcaldine, St George and Dirranbandi to Brisbane and Toowoomba. With a unique view of the vast ‘inland sea’, RFDS pilots said the water took on an eerie quality at night. Returning from St George, Brisbane Senior Base Pilot Tony Bennett said, “In the moonlight the extent of the flooding was obvious and almost unbelievable. The road out of town to the evacuation centres in Dalby was bumper-to-bumper for at least 100 kilometres, worse than the Bruce Highway on a Sunday afternoon. It was very sobering to think what all these people were leaving behind.” While towns such as Mitchell and Roma were badly affected, there was a sigh of relief when the levee at Charleville held, protecting most of the town from the torrent of water. After the water subsided the RFDS was once again on call returning patients to their home towns.
Business as usual in Charleville Despite the floods, it was business as usual for the team at Charleville Base, providing an immunisation clinic for the Murweh Shire Council. It was the first in a program of clinics to provide childhood and school-based immunisations. While numbers were down for the first clinic due to the floods, it is expected that around 50 families per month will take advantage of the service. Murweh Shire Council spokesperson Sandy Manns said the Council was delighted the RFDS had agreed to provide the program. “RFDS Flight Nurses are fully accredited in immunisation, and our community appreciates the stability and continuity that the RFDS provides,” she said. Nurse Manager Jo Mahony, mum Selena Hughes, baby Heath Watts, dad Damien Watts, mum Heidi Everitt and daughter Arlie Rogers, with Sandy Manns from Murweh Shire Council
> May 2012
5
Wings members take the RFDS to new heights Together, Wings members have raised over $430,000 since the program began in July 2009 which has helped us purchase much needed equipment and medical supplies. Mount Isa Base Senior Medical Officer Dr Don Bowley says Wings members are taking the RFDS to new heights. “Thank you to everyone who has joined Wings and is helping the RFDS to care for people across Queensland. I know everyone appreciates the assistance the RFDS provides. From emergency evacuations to community GP clinics, child and family health clinics or one of the many other primary health care programs we provide to over 42,000 patients each year. We couldn’t do it without your support.” Please join Wings today and make a difference to the lives of thousands of Queenslanders who rely on the Flying Doctor. Mount Isa Base Senior Medical Officer Dr Don Bowley
Join us today To become a Wings member or receive further information please call (07) 3860 1100 or email wings@rfdsqld.com.au Please see below for the membership options available to you. F lying Doctor Supporter $12 per month or $144 annually P ilot Wing Partner $24 per month or $288 annually F light Nurse Crew $44 per month or $528 annually R FDS Custodian $66 per month or $792 annually
6
> May 2012
Captain Peter Brooke awarded Australia Day Medal This year’s list of Australia Day recipients of the Order of Australia included a significant award to one of our own. Captain Peter Brooke was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for his services to the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section). The award recognises Peter’s contribution in his various roles in the Aviation Department over 27 years of dedicated service, and specifically mentions the role that he played in helping repatriate the seriously injured following the Bali Bombing in 2002. Peter commenced with the RFDS in 1985 when the organisation had just three bases and a handful of pilots, and he has played an important role in guiding the Aviation Department as it has grown to a fleet of 20 aircraft across eight bases. Over the years Peter has received a number of awards, along with many
Congratulations to Captain Peter Brooke who was awarded an OAM on Australia Day
letters from people whose lives he has touched during his work for the RFDS. The RFDS congratulates Peter on his OAM, a most fitting recognition of a humble and dedicated man.
…has played an important role in guiding the Aviation Department as it has grown to a fleet of 20 aircraft.
BNE opens largest single-structure car park in the southern hemisphere A $180 million nine storey, 5,000 space car park, the largest single-structure car park in the southern hemisphere, is now open at Brisbane Airport. The new car park is part of a $250 million upgrade to the Domestic Terminal precinct. In addition to the car park, the upgrade sees new roads around the Domestic Terminal and an elevated skywalk from the car parks to the terminal. The upgrade of the Domestic Terminal precinct follows the opening of the $220 million Moreton Drive in 2009. Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) Head of Corporate Relations, Rachel Crowley, said the Domestic Terminal precinct upgrade adds significant extra capacity on the roads and in the car parks, providing passengers with a more efficient and convenient experience. “Constructing a new car park and road network in the middle of an airport terminal which operates 24
hours a day, seven days a week has been a complex process. We are grateful to our customers for their patience during this construction period.” For exclusive parking offers book parking online at www.bne.com.au Brisbane Airport Corporation is a proud Principal Sponsor of the RFDS (Queensland Section).
> May 2012
7
QCoal supports your community by supporting the Flying Doctor A partnership dedicated to the health and wellbeing of the community.
Showing great spirit The Spirit of Queensland program exists to support and encourage people to make a difference to the lives of fellow Queenslanders by raising funds to help keep the Flying Doctor flying. The RFDS welcomes a number of new entrants who have chosen to make a difference and also extends a warm welcome back to returning entrants whose enthusiasm and commitment is very much appreciated. Fundraising activity is already underway and there are many exciting and interesting events planned for the coming months.
Activities round-up Photo artist Ian Taylor generously donated a signed limited edition print of snowgums in Kosciuszko National Park to Townsville Spirit of Queensland entrant Ruth Dodd. Ruth then organised a big fundraising raffle using the framed print as the prize which was won by Mr and Mrs Overland. First time Spirit of Queensland entrant David is studying medicine at Griffith University and is also a member of the Hope for Health student group. For the last five years, this group has organised the “Midnight Muster”, the highlight of the social calendar, and this year over 350 people enjoyed a night of live music, dancing and fun at the Beaudesert Race Club with funds raised supporting the Flying Doctor.
Welcome to our new entrants for 2012 Raffle winners Mr and Mrs Overland accept the artist’s certificate of authenticity for their limited edition artwork from Ruth and RFDS Townsville Line Pilot Gavin Prentice
Ruth
David
Chloe
> Ruth Dodd, Townsville > David Molhoek, Gold Coast > Chloe Marshall, Collinsville
Exclusive distributor of Hawker Beechcraft aircraft
We thank all entrants and we wish them every success in their efforts.
nt to service helps keep the Putting the fun into fundraising at theService 5th annual Midnight Musterair ctor in the
Mission and Aeromedical modifications
Do you have the spirit? Since 1978, Hawker Pacific has been a strong and proud
Young old, supporteror of the RFDS. country or city, becoming an entrant in the Spirit of Queensland program is simple. To This join this special group of committed and passionate supporters, call (07) 4040 0143 long-lasting working relationship has included the supply of a range of Hawker Beechcraft aircraft, including the world or email community@rfdsqld.com.au for an application form. leading King Air aircraft, ongoing aircraft maintenance and the design and installation of aeromedical equipment.
speak with us today.
8
m
Event Sponsor
H AW K E R
Premium Sponsor
Major Sponsor
Media Sponsors
PAC I F I C > May 2012
9
PATIENT STORY >
The road to recovery Cairns Burketown
It was meant to be a weekend of fun and relaxation, but when their ute rolled on a lonely stretch of road late at night, Mount Isa residents Nick Tompsett and his 24-year-old-son Jarad Cole found that things don’t always go according to plan.
Townsville
Mount Isa
Longreach
Rockhampton
Bundaberg
Charleville Brisbane
Nick Tompsett’s vehicle after the accident
My son Jarad and I had been planning a few days’ camping and crabbing with a couple of his work mates. After a couple of false starts due to the weather, we finally set out on the afternoon of Friday 10 February. My mouth was watering in anticipation of cooking up some beautiful muddies.
Ferris wheel roll and flipped the vehicle. I remember being knocked unconscious momentarily and when I came to, I couldn’t breathe. I must have been winded, but all of a sudden my lungs filled with air and Jarad was able to pull me through the window to a safer distance and assess our injuries. All I know is that we were both alive and although I had some major back injuries, it was a small price to pay considering.
Jarad’s boss had lent us his tray back ute, and by about 5.00pm everything was loaded and off we went to meet up with the other boys just out of town. There was no rush - we had a number of stops along the way and stayed a fair distance back to avoid choking on their dust.
Jarad had two rifles with him and he let off every round and lit a fire in an attempt to attract some attention from somewhere. Although he had sustained a number of egg-sized bumps on his head and had a sore neck and shoulder, he was definitely my rock.
By 9.00pm Jarad had been driving for some time and we decided to swap drivers. We carried on at a steady speed, taking it carefully because there were deep, dried up wheel ruts in the side of the road from the wet season. At around 10.30pm a herd of cattle came running across the road in front of me. I swerved slightly to avoid them and applied the brakes, but the front wheel dropped into a wheel rut and we went into a
10
> May 2012
We were in such a desolate and isolated area, we could not be sure of when someone might come along. I am not sure how long it was but eventually Jarad said he could see headlights coming in our direction. It was three men in an old LandCruiser with no exhaust. Jarad asked them if they could drive on further and try to find our travelling companions and get them to come back. They did and returned about 20 minutes later and told us they couldn’t find them. They then offered to use their vehicle to roll ours over onto its wheels with the assistance of chains.
We were in such a desolate and isolated area, we could not be sure of when someone might come along.
Nick Tompsett says he felt at ease in the hands of “a wonderful medical team” Nick’s son Jarad Cole
Nick Tompsett says he felt at ease in the hands of “a wonderful medical team”
Another vehicle, driven by the son of a station owner approximately 15 to 20 kilometres up the road, then came by. They loaded up both vehicles with all our debris and helped me into the front passenger seat of their vehicle. The driver said, “Don’t worry, when we get you home my mum’s got some good stuff that’ll fix you up.” He was so good and drove no faster than 10 kilometres per hour to avoid the bumps and to not aggravate my injuries. When we arrived at the homestead his mother was on the phone to the Flying Doctor, who gave her instructions on administering morphine to me by injection. Fortunately, the station had a Flying Doctor medical chest. The doctor then arranged for an ambulance from Burketown to come to the homestead, a distance of about 80 kilometres. Other station hands returned to the scene of the accident and towed our vehicle back to the homestead. These station people were so wonderful and caring, I fight to find the right words to express our gratitude for everything they did for us. The ambulance then took Jarad and me another 45 kilometres to Gregory Station where we were met by the Royal Flying Doctor Service aircraft. The doctor, nurses, ambulance officers and pilot showed just how professional they were in my hours of need. Even though we were in such an isolated area, and despite the injuries we sustained, I have never felt so at ease knowing I was in the hands of the most wonderful caring medical team. I am not just saying that, because they really do care about their patients. During my nine days of hospitalisation at Mount Isa, a nurse thought I would like to know that the doctor
from the RFDS had rung the hospital on two separate occasions asking how my condition was. Again, I was overwhelmed by his professionalism and caring nature, and his concern for a patient even though I was now out of his hands. My injuries were a compression fracture of the lower spine, three fractured bones on the right side of the spine, the shoulder joint torn from its socket, severe bruising to the right side of my back, six lacerations to the rear of my head and one on my forehead and a sprained left ankle. Just in case you are wondering, I did ask the doctor and the pilot if it was possible to divert to our original destination to catch some crabs seeing as we were so close. Unfortunately they said they had to decline my request but were impressed that I still had my sense of humour. So that is the excitement we endured on our father/ son crabbing and camping trip. We’re now hanging for the next trip!
The RFDS Mount Isa Base employees involved in Nick’s evacuation were: > Senior Medical Officer Don Bowley > Flight Nurse Haidee Steinhardt > Line Pilot Phil Dodd Ambulance Driver Burnett Hollingsworth and Acting Director of Nursing at the Burketown Clinic Emma McCleary from Queensland Health transported Nick and Jarad by road between the two stations.
> May 2012
11
In 2002 we flew 435 patients. Ten years later, we carry more than four times as many. In 2002 we flew a little over 180,000 kilometres from this base; now, it’s more than 700,000 kilometres.
Happy birthday Bundaberg
RFDS Bundaberg Volunteer Auxiliary President Lynette Dean presents a cheque for $10,000 to Board Member Bill Mellor, watched by Captain Graham Vonhoff
A handsome birthday present in the form of a cheque for $10,000 and a cake cutting were highlights of Bundaberg Base’s 10th birthday celebrations on Monday 5 March. CEO Nino Di Marco told a gathering of community providers to identify and meet the health care needs representatives, health care providers, Bundaberg in the community,” he said. Volunteer Auxiliary members, supporters and employees Captain Graham Vonhoff, a member of the original that the RFDS had a bright future in the area. team at Bundaberg, shared some memories of The RFDS’s Bundaberg Base was established in 2002. his time with the RFDS, before Volunteer Auxiliary President Lynette Dean presented a cheque for “Our activity in the Bundaberg-Wide Bay area has increased significantly since then,” Mr Di Marco said. $10,000. A further $1,000 donation was received from Citizens Who Care. “In 2002 we flew 435 patients. Ten years later, we carry more than four times as many. In 2002 we flew a little over 180,000 kilometres from this base; now, it’s more than 700,000 kilometres.”
He said that as well as providing inter-hospital transfers, the RFDS was investigating ways that it could deliver primary health care programs in the region.
Mr Di Marco praised the members of the Volunteer Auxiliary, who have raised close to $80,000 over the past four years and thanked the Bundaberg community for its ongoing support of the RFDS.
Bundaberg Base Manager Jo Faulkner described the Bundaberg team as “inspiring”. “Each and “We’re keen to work with Queensland Health, Medicare every employee is passionate about the RFDS Locals, Health and Hospital Networks and other service and dedicated to the community,” she said.
Brisbane and South East Queensland Entertainment Books - on sale now The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) is raising funds by selling the 2012/13 Entertainment Book.
Purchase your copy today To order your copy contact Jennifer Reid at RFDS Brisbane Base on (07) 3860 1100 or email jreid@rfdsqld.com.au
ED LIMITTITY E QUAN A L BL AVAI
$ 65
PLUS AGE POST
es receiv RFDSrom every $ 13 f ok sold bo
Entertainment Books contain hundreds of 25-50% off vouchers and two-for-one offers for casual, family and fine dining restaurants, cinemas, hotel accommodation, the arts, attractions and sporting events. There truly is something for everyone, with the opportunity to save with great value offers.
LIMITED QUANTITIES AVAILABLE. PURCHASE YOUR COPY NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT.
12
> May 2012
Connecting Queensland 24/7
> May 2012
13
PROFILE STORY >
Line Pilot Bruce Waller says the RFDS is going through an exciting and challenging time
Bruce Waller: living life What gets you out of bed in the morning? RFDS Townsville Base Line Pilot Bruce Waller’s answer is simple: life. He says that each day brings along all sorts of experiences, characters and circumstances that make life interesting, and that work with the RFDS allows all these things to occur during a 12 hour shift. This year Bruce celebrates ten years with the RFDS. Although he left school at the end of Year 11 with no fixed goals and initially completed a trade as a Fitter, Turner and Machinist, in some ways it seemed inevitable that he would end up in aviation. His father worked for the Department of Civil Aviation and Bruce grew up in and around airports. Bruce trained as a pilot in order to join Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), a not-for-profit team of aviation professionals providing air transport in places of deepest human need. After a number of years flying with MAF in Arnhem Land, Papua New Guinea and Central Australia, he joined the RFDS, an organisation that appealed to him because of its service orientation.
14
> May 2012
“Our shareholders are the ill and injured members of the general public. The entire operation revolves around the provision of a safe, available and professional service to fill the needs of our shareholders, the people of Queensland and Australia,” he says. Bruce says that if there’s one thing guaranteed in life, it’s change, and that’s something he’s seen plenty of over the past decade. “Aviation has moved on from aircraft types such as the C90 King Air. We now operate the Pilatus PC-12 and the Cessna C208 Grand Caravan, and we’re a world leader in operating the King Air B200 with the Proline ‘glass’ cockpit.
It always remains a constant child-like wonder to me that very clever people created such technology simply by observing birds and thinking, that flying business looks like something we should try sometime. begins. The tasks range from the straightforward out and back to the multiple location patient transfers which involve varying patient care requirements. Either way, managing the task is a joint effort between the medical crew and pilot.
Bruce helps to load a stretcher into the RFDS aircraft
to the full “Not to mention the fact that when I started in 2002 we had 26 pilots. That number is now nearer to 60,” Bruce says. “There has been an incredible expansion in many aspects of health care being provided by the RFDS throughout Queensland: primary health care, women’s health, child and family health and mental health. Assisting Queensland Health in moving all manner of allied health workers throughout the Gulf and Cape York areas, from dental health to speech therapists. Flying surgeons from Roma. The list goes on. It’s an exciting and challenging time for the RFDS (Queensland Section), and I love working alongside terrific people across the various disciplines.” Bruce recently stood aside as Senior Pilot to allow another interested and capable pilot to take the role, and is now getting used to being a Line Pilot again. A typical day begins with an early start. After receiving the detail of the tasking – which patients need to be transferred where – the flight planning
“Tasks can change when higher priority cases come in via Retrieval Services Queensland (RSQ),” Bruce says. “This can require a bit of lateral thinking and can be quite disruptive to the planning process for both aviation and medical employees. However, as RFDS Pilots we are trained to keep things from getting too challenging or difficult.” One of the things that Bruce most enjoys about flying is the different visual perspectives that being airborne provides. “It’s fantastic. It always remains a constant child-like wonder to me that very clever people created such technology simply by observing birds and thinking, that flying business looks like something we should try sometime.” Following a day or night of tasking, Bruce “puts the aircraft to bed”, finalises paperwork and then, if not required by the Flight Nurse to help out, finishes up. In his 33 years of working life, this is the first time that Bruce has accrued long service leave and he has no set plans as to how he will use it. With three of his four children still in their school years, he and his wife Kim, an occupational therapist, are somewhat limited in their options at this stage, and are not planning to rush into it without due consideration. In the meantime, though, he enjoys fishing and camping with his family whenever possible. Bruce says he recently flew with a relief Medical Officer, Dr Gerry Ariotti. “Gerry is the great nephew of the legendary Lou Ariotti. Dr Lou Ariotti worked with the RFDS on occasion, and was also the man who delivered me and my twin sister many years ago in Charleville Hospital at 29 weeks premature,” Bruce says. “Gerry’s comment on surviving another one of my landings back in Townsville following a long night task was, ‘Bruce, I’m glad that my great uncle safely delivered you all those years ago.’ So am I.”
> May 2012
15
How you can help
Ergon Energy Chief Executive Ian McLeod and RFDS Townsville Base Line Pilot Gavin Prentice celebrate the $6 million milestone
Become a corporate partner As a not–for-profit organisation there is no doubt the RFDS relies heavily on the generosity of companies in order to provide vital health care to anyone living, working or travelling in rural and remote Queensland. A strategic alliance with the RFDS, which has delivered quality health care in Queensland since 1928, will not only have tangible benefits for our state but could also improve a company’s bottom line. There are now many mutually beneficial ways for companies and organisations to get involved with the RFDS. These include partnerships, workplace fundraising, sponsorships, payroll giving and staff engagement activities, and many more. Ergon Energy, which provides energy to around 680,000 people across regional Queensland, has found that a partnership with the RFDS is a powerful way to connect with its customers.
16
electricity bills to help support the RFDS, while their employees can donate through a workplace giving program. Twelve years on, more than 100,000 Ergon Energy customers and employees currently participate in the scheme, and the total sum raised has topped $6 million. Ergon Energy Chief Executive Ian McLeod paid tribute to “a remarkable demonstration of community spirit towards a very vital and worthy cause.” “Even though many of our customers have been doing it tough, it has only taken about 12 months for their total donations to jump from $5 million to $6 million – that’s inspiring,” he said. RFDS CEO Nino Di Marco thanked Ergon Energy customers and employees for their ongoing commitment and generosity. “We look forward to a bright future working together to raise funds and awareness so the Flying Doctor can continue to deliver the finest care to the furthest corners of Queensland,” he said.
A Principal Sponsor of the RFDS for 12 years, Ergon Energy was formed in 1999 with a charter to provide energy to rural and regional communities across the state. The company’s interest in the RFDS was sparked when it saw the need for comprehensive, quality health care in those same communities, and in 2000 the two organisations announced an innovative sponsorship program that would allow Ergon Energy customers to support the Flying Doctor through their electricity bills.
If your organisation is interested in partnering with the RFDS, Corporate Partnerships Coordinator Peta West will work with your company to understand your values and objectives to develop a sustainable and aligned partnership. Your contribution and level of involvement may vary, but every effort helps to keep the Flying Doctor flying.
Through this program, Ergon Energy customers are encouraged to donate $2 or $5 through their quarterly
To find out more, please phone Peta West on (07) 38601100 or email pwest@rfdsqld.com.au
> May 2012
Make a difference in May
Continuing through bequests
With May being a special month for the RFDS as we celebrate our anniversary, there is no better time to get involved and hold a fundraiser to support the work of the Flying Doctor.
John Flynn’s dream of providing an aeromedical service to those in isolated and regional Australia became a reality in 1928. This was made possible largely because of the generosity and vision of Hugh Victor McKay, inventor of the Sunshine Harvester, who left a significant gift in his will to establish the RFDS.
You could hold an RFDS themed birthday BBQ or sausage sizzle, organise a dress-down day at your workplace, have friends around for a fun quiz night or simply create an idea of your own. If you are interested in supporting the RFDS with an event, call Mike Greasley, Community Fundraising Coordinator on (07) 4040 0143 for more information.
If you too share this vision and are considering making a legacy or have any questions about bequests, please contact our Bequest Officer Louise McLaren on (07) 3860 1186 or email lmclaren@rfdsqld.com.au Please contact us if you have already made provision for the RFDS in your will and, as yet, have not advised us. We would like the opportunity to personally thank you for your support.
John Flynn
Yes, I want to help keep the Flying Doctor flying > I would like to make a donation of $ Please debit as per my details below / a cheque is attached. I would like to make regular donations. Please send me information about the Wings regular giving program. I would like more information about making a bequest in my will to the RFDS (QLD Section). Please send information to the address below. I have included the RFDS in my will. Name:
W)
American Express ❐
Ph: (07) 3860 1100 Fax: (07) 3860 1122 Email: rfds_bne@rfdsqld.com.au Website: www.flyingdoctor.org.au
Email: Birthday: Type of card: ❐
/
/ MasterCard ❐
Visa ❐
Credit card number Signature:
Donations to the Royal Flying Doctor Service are tax deductible for income tax purposes.
Please complete and send this form to: Reply Paid 64275 Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) Brisbane Airport QLD 4008
Address: Ph: H)
Q-MAGMAY12
Card expiry date:
Diners Club
In accordance with the Privacy Act, the RFDS (QLD Section) will not disclose your personal information for reasons other than the primary purpose of the Service, to third parties without your consent. If you would like to access your personal information held by the Service, please contact the RFDS. You can request to have your details removed at any time from our mailing list.
> February > May 2012
17
What’s on Upcoming events> RFDS Rockhampton Volunteer Auxiliary Fundraiser – Mother’s Day Morning Tea
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Dinner Dance Fundraiser
Wednesday 2 May at 10am Location: Heritage Village, Parkhurst Please contact Dell on (07) 4928 6498 or Marion on (07) 4914 0073
Saturday 9 June Location: Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast Organised by Master Events, proceeds from auctions and raffles on the night will support the work of the Flying Doctor. For more information contact anthonyevents@live.com.au
M+K Ride West 2012 Friday 4 May – Thursday 10 May Location: Brisbane to Longreach After a very successful event in 2010, M+K Lawyers are once again organising the Ride West cycle ride with riders covering over 1,100 kilometres in seven days while raising funds for the Flying Doctor. To find out more or to sponsor a rider visit: www.everydayhero.com.au/event/MandKRideWest
Beef Australia 2012 Monday 7 May – Saturday 12 May Location: Rockhampton Come along to the RFDS Rockhampton Volunteer Auxiliary’s stall at this great event.
The Long Walk Home – Simpson Desert Crossing Monday 25 June – Tuesday 10 July Location: Simpson Desert To find out more go to www.thelongwalkhome.com.au
RFDS Rockhampton Volunteer Auxiliary Fundraiser – Mother’s Day Morning Tea Wednesday 4 July at 10am Location: Heritage Village, Parkhurst Please contact Dell on (07) 4928 6498 or Marion on (07) 4914 0073
RFDS Sunshine Coast Volunteer Auxiliary Fundraiser – Annual Luncheon
RFDS Sunshine Coast Volunteer Auxiliary Fundraiser – Cocktail Party
Saturday 19 May Location: Innovation Centre, Sunshine Coast University Enjoy a great luncheon with special guest speaker Her Excellency, Ms Penelope Wensley AC, Governor of Queensland. For more information contact rfdssuncoast@gmail.com
Saturday 7 July Location: Buderim Hall, Buderim Join the Sunshine Coast Volunteer Auxiliary at their cocktail party to celebrate 150 years of Buderim history.
Cairns Airport Adventure Festival Sunday 27 May – Monday 4 June Location: Cairns The RFDS is once again a charity partner for this week long festival of sporting events. For more information visit www.usmevents.com.au
Paradise Lagoons Campdraft Thursday 19 July – Saturday 21 July Location: Rockhampton For many years the Paradise Lagoons Campdraft has supported the RFDS with collections at the gate, thanks to the efforts of the members from the Rockhampton Volunteer Auxiliary.
To add your RFDS fundraising event to the calendar, please contact (07) 3860 1100.
84 years and counting It was 84 years ago, on Tuesday 15 May 1928, that the RFDS was established by the Reverend John Flynn in Cloncurry with one aircraft (a DH50A named Victory) one pilot (Captain Arthur Affleck) and one doctor (Kenyon St Vincent Welch). Just two days later the RFDS flew its first mission 137 kilometres away to Julia Creek to attend to an injured stockman. Today, the RFDS continues to respond to the call for help; however, from its humble beginnings our network has increased significantly, operating from eight bases around Queensland, using 20 aircraft fitted out with lifesaving mini intensive care units, and employing a 385 strong workforce including pilots, doctors, nurses, primary health care workers and support service personnel.
18
> May 2012
Every day, 30 patients are cared for by our aeromedical teams inside an RFDS aircraft, and every week our primary health care workers provide 837 patient consultations. Although the RFDS continues to grow, our mission to deliver the finest health care to the furthest corner of Queensland remains steadfast.
Thank you
for your donations Birdsville Race Club continues valued support The Birdsville Race Club recently presented the Royal Flying Doctor Service with a cheque for $20,000. Club President David Brook said, “A key objective of the races is to raise funds for the Flying Doctor and we are delighted to be able to continue our long term support of the RFDS.”
A donation with
RFDS Charleville Base employees accept the donation from Birdsville Race Club members
a difference
After the RFDS ca me to the aid of Toll Mining Services’ crew m ember Lou Serg iacomi, his work mates wanted to give something ba ck. They came up with idea of do nating the value of a day’s annual leave and 42 wor kers did just that , raising more than $8,000 for th e Flying Doctor.
From left to right : RFDS Nurse M anger Clinical M Geraghty, Region aureen al Operations M anager - Toll Min Services Phil O’ ing Dwyer, crew mem ber John Begeda member and brot , crew her of Lou Sergiac omi, Dan Sergiac patient Lou Serg omi, past iacomi and RFDS Line Pilot Marty Hurst
at success re g a y a D rganised Golf e Daybreak o
vill lub of Towns C ry ing Golf ta o R e h T nd ABB Min la s n e e u Q l vent with the inaugura successful e ry e v a s a w e days of art over thre Challenge. It p g in k ta rs e lf Club. play ownsville Go around 150 T e th t a n o efit petiti rities to ben a h c friendly com r u fo f o 00. as one ation of $6,5 n o d a The RFDS w d e iv e nt and rec eod from the eve t Marcel McL Presiden er Loretto lle Daybreak vi ns w To of urse Manag N b lu S C FD y R ar to ot R ion kivell nts the donat Clayton Nan (right) prese r Base Pilot io en S S FD R Harvey and
Support is no surprise The community of Mt Surprise might be small but they are committed to supporting the Flying Doctor. Thanks to the efforts of Merle Taylor, who is a tireless organiser of fundraising activities, a cheque for $4,000 was presented to the RFDS at the end of last year. Merle Taylor (right) presents a cheque to RFDS Medical Officer Adam Pritchard and RFDS Primary Health Care Nurse Marita Box outside the Mt Surprise clinic
> May 2012
19
Townsville welcomes state’s first green electric vehicle charging station Ergon Energy’s electric vehicle (EV) trial has achieved another first with the installation of a solar-powered EV charge station at Townsville Airport.
Senior Installation Team Member Paul Gjeko tests the newly installed Charge Point system
The charge station uses renewable energy generated from a 4 kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) shade membrane shelter covering six car parks - the first of its kind in Australia.
Five households in Mt Low have been loaned a Mitsubishi i-MiEV electric vehicle to drive around in for eight months to see what effect a high concentration of EVs may have on the suburb’s network.
Down the track, Ergon Energy hopes to make the charge station available to the general public, but for now it’s purely for EVs involved in the trial.
It takes about seven hours to fully charge one of these cars and costs about $3.20 – providing enough electricity to keep it going for 90km.
The charging system was installed at the airport to work in conjunction with the PV shade membrane shelter, which was constructed last year.
The electric vehicle trial is part of Ergon Energy’s Townsville Energy Sense Community program to help plan for the network of the future.
The cutting edge technology comes as an exciting new addition to Townsville’s residential electric vehicle trial.
Ergon Energy is a proud Principal Sponsor of the RFDS (Queensland Section).
The long walk home
- Simpson Desert Crossing Most people just take a walk in the park to get a bit of exercise but RFDS fundraiser Jenna Brook from Birdsville is taking things to a whole new level. With the goal of raising $20,000 to support the lifesaving work of the Flying Doctor, Jenna will undertake a 435 kilometre walk from Dalhousie Springs, South Australia back home to Birdsville across the Simpson Desert. Jenna is currently working though a strict training routine to get herself physically and mentally ready for this huge challenge and will set off on Monday 25 June. Between all the training she is also managing to squeeze in fundraising as well as work and family commitments. Backed up by a support crew and vehicle while on her epic journey, Jenna hopes to be walking triumphantly into Birdsville on Tuesday 10 July.
Jenna in training for her remarkable challenge
20
> May February 20122012
To find out more or to support Jenna visit www.thelongwalkhome.com.au
Your generositY has gone a long waY Over $6 million has now been donated by Ergon Energy customers to the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Every minute of every day these tireless medical teams are on call, ready to fly to the aid of Queenslanders in need. If you’d like to help the Royal Flying Doctor Service, get on board by adding a $2 donation to your electricity bill at ergon.com.au.
Exclusive distributor of Hawker Beechcraft aircraft
Our commitment to service helps keep the Royal Flying Doctor Service in the air Leading the way in Special Mission and Aeromedical modifications Since 1978, Hawker Pacific has been a strong and proud supporter of the RFDS. This long-lasting working relationship has included the supply of a range of Hawker Beechcraft aircraft, including the world leading King Air aircraft, ongoing aircraft maintenance and the design and installation of aeromedical equipment. For a complete and reliable aviation solution, speak with us today.
Hawker Pacific Pty Limited Tel: +61 2 9708 8555
Fax: +61 2 9790 5238
Email: enquires@hawkerpacific.com
www.hawkerpacific.com
H AW K E R
PAC I F I C