RFDS base sets new standard for outback

Aero medical emergency care reached new heights in the Kimberley after the Royal Flying Doctor Service opened its new $4.5 million base in Broome last week.

The facility is the first regional operations base to open in WA in the past 50 years and was established to bolster emergency medical services for patients in the region.

The project was funded by the Federal Government, which contributed $2.5 million, and a Lotterywest grant. It was also supported by the Broome community.

Dignitaries, business and the public were invited to the official opening last Wednesday and toured the base which features two aircraft hangars each with engineering facilities to carry out vital aircraft maintenance, a state-of-the-art patient treatment/transfer centre, office space, amenities and a parking area.

The RFDS now has 15 Broome-based crew members in town made up of four doctors, five nurses and five pilots.

RFDS chief executive Grahame Marshall said it was a “significant milestone” for the organisation that would build its capability in delivering the most effective aero medical care to all West Australians throughout the year.

Mr Marshall said demand for lifesaving services had increased substantially in the Kimberley over the past five years.

“Last year alone, the RFDS flew over 1100 patients to and from Broome, making it our busiest transport hub in the north of the State,” he said.

“The introduction of additional capacity to Broome will mean the RFDS is better placed to more quickly respond to emergencies throughout the Kimberley and the Pilbara, enabling reduced flight times, and ultimately providing better outcomes for patients in the region.”

Shire of Broome president Ron Johnston said the launch marked the beginning of a new era for Broome and the Kimberley.

Broome International Airport general manager Paul McSweeney said the airport had worked closely with the RFDS to get the base established.

“This is a very important community asset and we are very excited to be involved,” he said.