Graphic: RFDS local heroes
From selfless volunteers and fundraisers to first responders and healthcare advocates, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) (RFDS) today announced its regional Local Hero Award winners for 2022.
The annual Awards, supported by Ergon Energy Retail, recognise Queenslanders who have donated their time and energy to support their community.
This year’s winners include a woman whose never-give-up attitude saved the life of her friend on a remote property, a senior midwife who provides specialist telehealth support to help deliver babies in rural and remote areas, two volunteers who act as RFDS ‘support crew’ at their local clinic, and a family who has supported vital services in their outback community for decades.
An Award has also been given to a woman who raises awareness and funds for the Flying Doctor after her young daughter received life-saving care, an inspiring healthcare advocate who encourages her community to attend regular check-ups, a volunteer first responder who has helped keep his community safe for nearly 30 years, and two sisters on a mission to raise funds through their specially designed Flying Doctor-inspired work shirts.
RFDS (Queensland Section) Chief Executive Officer Meredith Staib said each of this year’s winners have gone above and beyond.
“Often local heroes within our communities are quiet achievers who don’t always recognise themselves as heroes – but they absolutely are,” Ms Staib said.
“From first responders and fundraisers to volunteers, fashion designers and healthcare champions, each of these individuals do amazing work to support their region.
“Some also have their own first-hand experience of the life-saving work of the RFDS, which has personally driven them to give back to their community.
“Supporting Queensland communities is at the heart of the RFDS, and it truly is a team effort, so thank you to all of this year’s winners and nominees for the unwavering support you provide to your communities each and every day.”
Ergon Energy Retail Executive General Manager Ayesha Razzaq said to be able to recognise the selfless dedication of the eight regional RFDS Local Hero Award winners is truly an honour.
“This is a wonderful way of celebrating the brilliant local people and groups, who through their passion and kindness, make our communities so special,” Ms Razzaq said.
“This is our seventh year as a proud partner of the awards, and each year I am both inspired and humbled by their efforts.”
Ms Staib said voting is now open for the overall 2022 RFDS Queensland Hero.
“Each regional winner’s story is showcased in a video package on the RFDS Local Hero website. You can watch these videos and cast your vote for the person or group you would like to see crowned this year’s RFDS Queensland Hero,” she said.
