Every year, RFDS medics join the epic Outback Car Trek to provide 24/7 medical assistance for the dedicated trekkers. This year, we’ll be supported by RFDS South Eastern Section’s Dr Guy Hardwick and Flight Nurse Kerry Lyn Ukena.
Introducing Dr Guy Hardwick
Explain your role on the trek.
Our main role is to provide medical support. It's a long journey through remote territory, often far from the nearest hospital - much like our day-to-day work with RFDS - so having us along helps increase the safety aspect. We'll be available 24/7 for anything from minor injuries and general assessments through to major trauma (though hopefully less of the latter!).
Why did you put your hand up to support the trek?
The adventure is a big reason. I’m a great fan of the outdoors and have loved previous experiences with long-distance, off-road driving, so hearing about the Trek really excited me. It’s also such a major supporter of the Flying Doctors, and to be a part of that is a real privilege.
What are you most excited about?
The sense of adventure, achievement and camaraderie that comes with a big trip like this.
Which part of the route are you most looking forward to?
I’m particularly keen on visiting the central Queensland outback, where RFDS was born. Julia Creek was the site of our first retrieval—so technically, it’s to blame for my job today!
Do you have an interest in cars?
Yes! My Dad has always been a petrolhead, going on track days and off-road driving experiences were a big feature growing up. The first car I learned to drive was an ancient Land Rover that sounded like it had a bag of spanners under the bonnet, but we loved it.
How would you explain the RFDS's impact to someone who doesn't live in the city?
The RFDS does a lot more than just emergency retrieval work, though this does provide rural communities with significant peace of mind. We're a charity that also provides GP, dental, mental health and many other services to enormous parts of rural Australia. If the RFDS vanished tomorrow, it wouldn’t just be those in a crisis who suffered, but pretty much everyone who lives outside of a main town or city.
Hear from Flight Nurse Kerry Lyn Ukena
Why did you put your hand up to support the trek?
How could you not! There aren’t many jobs where you get to have this kind of adventure while working.
Supporting the Outback Car Trek isn’t just about having fun on the road. More than a third of the RFDS South Eastern Section’s funding comes from bequests and donations. Events like the Outback Car Trek are vital to keep the Flying Doctor going. I see the impact of donations every day at work, and these events need to be supported.
Do you have an interest in cars?
Who doesn’t love a great, creative 2WD car? I can’t wait to see the team’s car-decorating skills this year.
Why should people consider donating to the RFDS?
When you live or travel in the Outback, you can experience an overwhelming feeling of isolation and helplessness when you’re sick or injured, but you’re hundreds or even thousands of kilometres away from a hospital or health care.
The RFDS is essential to bridge this gap. When the RFDS arrives, you can see the relief on the patient's face.
