RFDS Local Hero Awards 2024

Flying Doctor announces its annual RFDS Local Hero Award winners

Date published

29 Apr 2024

From schoolchildren and first responders to horseback fundraisers and mental health advocates, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) (Queensland Section) has today announced its latest RFDS Local Hero Award winners.

From schoolchildren and first responders to horseback fundraisers and mental health advocates, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) (Queensland Section) has today announced its latest RFDS Local Hero Award winners.

The annual regional awards supported by Ergon Energy Retail, now in its eighth year, recognise extraordinary individuals and groups who have had a profound impact on their local community.

Featuring local winners from across the state, the contributions of this year’s RFDS Local Heroes are as varied as they are geographically impactful and include:

RideWest

Brisbane - RideWest

A volunteer based non-profit organisation that raises funds and awareness for mental health programs.

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Childers SS

Bundaberg - Childers SS

Childers State School's mountain bike group successfully rode 1,000 kilometres to collect donations.

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Jodi Hamilton

Cairns - Jodi Hamilton

A healthcare advocate pushing for a palliative care facility to allow people to pass away with dignity.

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Rose Basiuk

Charleville - Rose Basiuk

Rose is the heartbeat of Yowah she embodies the spirit of selflessness and dedication that binds the town together.

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QCWA

Longreach - QCWA

Celebrated their centenary with a fundraising endurance ride on horseback.

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Zoe Miller

Mount Isa - Zoe Miller

Winner of Muster Dogs season two who is using her newfound platform to raise awareness of and funds for the RFDS.

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Robin Broadhurst

Rockhampton - Robin Broadhurst

An auxiliary volunteer working tirelessly to raise vital funds for the Flying Doctor.

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Matthew Minz

Roma - Matthew Minz

A dedicated police officer who consistently goes above and beyond to keep his community safe.

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Georgie Arnold

Townsville - Georgie Arnold

Who is making great strides in promoting the inclusion of young women in aviation.

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RFDS (Queensland Section) Chief Executive Officer Meredith Staib emphasised the extraordinary efforts of this year’s regional winners.

“There are unsung heroes in every region whose remarkable achievements often go unnoticed, yet the impact of their hard work and dedication is felt deeply in their local communities,” Ms. Staib said.

“From the quiet achievers to the tireless volunteers and dedicated professionals, each of this year's winners embody the spirit of service and compassion, and many have been touched personally by the life-saving interventions of the RFDS, which has helped fuel their commitment to giving back.

"At the heart of the RFDS mission lies unwavering support for Queensland communities.

“It's a collective endeavour, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all winners and nominees for their relentless dedication to community welfare."

Ergon Energy Retail Executive General Manager, Ayesha Razzaq, said the nine regional RFDS Local Hero Award recipients are great examples of selfless service.

"The dedication our regional RFDS Local Hero Award winners show in their communities is nothing short of amazing,” Ms. Razzaq said.

“Their tireless efforts and compassion enrich our communities in truly remarkable ways.

"They inspire us and remind us of the power of kindness and passion that helps to shape our communities.

“That’s why Ergon Energy Retail has celebrated the achievements and commitment of these incredible individuals and groups for the past eight years through our support of these awards.”

Queenslanders can find out more on each regional winner's story and vote for the overall RFDS Queensland Hero, via the RFDS Local Hero Awards website.

The RFDS Queensland Hero will receive a $20,000 grant courtesy of Ergon Energy Retail to support a healthcare initiative in their local community.

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