RFDS Ambassador Program

We partner with a range of people and organisations, who have a genuine affinity with the Flying Doctor and are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of Queenslanders.

For almost 100 years, the RFDS has held an enduring partnership with the people of Queensland. This special partnership was born from struggle, mutual respect and trust. Without the ongoing support of Queensland communities, we would not be able to provide the finest aeromedical and primary health care to the furthest corners of the state.

Our purpose remains as critical now as it was in 1928 — a purpose that requires a full and devoted community of staff and supporters, connected by a shared responsibility to improve health access to regional, rural and remote Queenslanders.

The RFDS Ambassador Program celebrates and strengthens this partnership and our commitment to the communities we serve. This program allows individuals and organisations who share our passion to recognise and champion our existing supporters, while motivating and inspiring others to join us on our mission.

Bound by a shared purpose, each Ambassador has committed to share their time, expertise and public profile to help promote the RFDS (Queensland Section) and the work we do to connect communities to the finest healthcare services.

Meet our Ambassadors

Sandy Gillies

Sandy Gillies, a proud Gunggari woman, is currently the CEO of Western Queensland Primary Health Network.

Sandy is passionate about improving health outcomes for Western Queenslanders, with extensive experience working in the healthcare industry throughout rural and remote Queensland.

Sam Hughes

Sam Hughes (The Travelling Jackaroo) is travelling around Australia in a 1957 Chamberlain 9G tractor to raise funds for the RFDS (Queensland Section).

Sam has decked out a bright orange tractor called ‘Slim' and hitched up a trailer with the body of a small RFDS aircraft replica on top.

Russell Postle

Russell Postle is a member of the RFDS (Queensland Section) Board, and was Chair from 2019 until 2023.

He is also Chairman of the Finance and Audit Committee and was a partner at BDO with experience providing audit, business advisory and specialist taxation consulting services to a range of clients.

The Hon. Bruce Scott AM

The Hon. Bruce Scott joined the Board as a Casual Director in 2016 after an extensive parliamentary career.

Bruce was elected to the House of Representatives as the Federal Member for Maranoa in from 1990 until 2016 and during this time held many ministerial positions.

Wudarabin Snider

Wudarabin Snider is an Aboriginal artist, who has previously created artwork depicting the values of the RFDS (Queensland Section).

Wudarabin is currently studying at James Cook University to become an art teacher.

Georgie Somerset AM

RFDS (Queensland Section) Chair, Georgie Somerset, is a beef producer and rural leader with experience in agribusiness, rural tourism, and regional development.

Her work involves identifying and advocating opportunities, resolving issues, and creating linkages and networks across rural sectors.

Emeritus Professor Robert Stable AM

Emeritus Professor Stable joined the Board in March 2012 and is currently a member of the Health Advisory Committee.

His former roles include Vice-Chancellor and President of Bond University, Director-General of Queensland Health, General Practitioner and Flying Doctor.

Kylee Tindale-Smith

Born and bred in Charleville, Kylee Tindale-Smith owns and operates e-commerce business Gidgee Smith Bags and Gidgee's Bush Camp.

A long-time supporter of the Flying Doctor, Kylee uses her platform to promote important conversations on rural mental health and wellness.

Tony “TONKA” Toholke

Tony “TONKA” Toholke is a passionate member of the Mount Isa Community and a proud supporter of the RFDS (Queensland Section), committed to championing men’s mental health.

TONKA was named the 2022 North Queensland Volunteer of the Year and 2023 Spirit of Mount Isa.

Interested in joining our community of ambassadors?

To find out more about becoming a RFDS ambassador, complete our Expression of Interest form below.

You can also contact our Ambassador Program Team via ambassadors@rfdsqld.com.au.