A Charleville-born and bred Kylee Tindale-Smith was welcomed into The Lighting the Way Ambassador Program by the Royal Flying Doctor Service at its 80-year anniversary celebration.
Over 90 guests attended the event at the RFDS Charleville Base on Thursday 2 November.
Kylee said she was honoured to be a part of the RFDS Ambassador Program and inducted during such a momentous celebration for the Flying Doctor.
“With its rich legacy of service to Queensland’s South-West region, the Charleville Base is a shining example of the vital role the RFDS plays in connecting communities to essential healthcare services,” she said.
“It’s this unique history and the tireless dedication of the base team that makes joining the Lighting the Way program all the more meaningful.
“I now have the privilege of helping to raise awareness about the work the RFDS does, build relationships with individuals and organisations that can support our efforts and inspire a new generation of RFDS supporters.”
Since the program launched early this year, five influential Queenslanders have joined the group to vocalise the importance of health and wellbeing in rural and remote areas of Queensland.
Already involved in the program are Queensland RFDS chair Russell Postle, board members the Hon. Bruce Scott AM and Emeritus Professor Robert Stable, the travelling jackaroo Sam Hughes and Western Queensland Primary Health Network CEO Sandy Gillies.
Queensland RFDS chief executive officer Meredith Staib said the program significantly strengthens the RFDS’s connection with Queensland communities.
“Community is at the heart of the Flying Doctor, and this program celebrates and fortifies our enduring partnership with the people we serve,” Ms Staib said.
“Charleville’s long-standing history of service and its unique role as the longest-serving RFDS Base in Australia make it a symbol of our commitment to this region.
“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.
“The Ambassador 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.
“It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Charleville and the dedication of the entire RFDS team that we continue to light the way for the health and well-being of all Queenslanders.”
The Charleville base, established in 1943 and is more than 622,000 square kilometres, connects rural and remote urban areas with life-saving and healthcare services.
Having treated more than 56,000 patients over the past 14 years the organisation operates from Brisbane, Bundaberg, Cairns, Charleville, Longreach, Mount Isa, Rockhampton, Roma and Townsville.
