RFDS goes on the road to remote Kimberley

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) announced an innovative program for remote Kimberley communities last week to deliver multiple health services.

The RFDS On the Road initiateve, partnered by Woodside is a support outreach program due to launch next year in the Kimberley.

The program will deliver on the road primary health services including first-aid training, basic life support training and medical checks to remote communities.

The program will also offer advice on healthy lifestyle and survey local air strips across the region on RFDS standards for day and night landing.

Woodside vice-president Niegel Grazia said Woodside would fund the program with $600,000 over three years.

RFDS chief executive Tim Shackleton said On the Road for the Kimberley had been in the pipeline for a few years and was a much needed service to remote places in the Kimberley.

“RFDS has spent a lot of time flying in and out of the Kimberley,” he said.

“The program will enable us to connect better on the ground with people and have a real presence in the remote communities. It’s tailor-made health services we will provide on the doorstep.”

Mr Grazia said Woodside was committed to investing in the community, and was proud to be supporting RFDS.

“The organisation makes a real difference to the health and wellbeing of remote areas.”