THE Royal Flying Doctor Service Victoria has staged a simultaneous celebration at 10 sites across Victoria, including Robinvale, to mark a major expansion of the Flying Doctor Community Transport service.
Robinvale community members were joined by Member for Mallee Anne Webster, local health services, clients, drivers and supporters at the event last month.
Flying Doctor Community Transport allows eligible clients to access medical appointments and social support group activities at no cost.
With trained local volunteer drivers, and in partnership with local health-care providers, the service helps those who would otherwise have limited transport options and ensures more people can access the health care services they need.
The service was established in Heathcote five years ago, before expanding to Rochester in early 2021.
However, with funding from the Western Victoria Primary Health Network, Murray PHN and Gippsland PHN, Flying Doctor Community Transport had grown significantly, opening a further eight sites across the state in less than 12 months.
RFDS Victoria chief executive Scott Chapman said it was important the incredible effort rolling out eight new sites in such a short time was recognised.
“This is a service designed to support the local community, and is run by the local community, so it was wonderful that we could say ‘thanks’ to all the people who have brought it to life,” Mr Chapman said.
Celebration events were held in Central Gippsland, Cobram, Foster, Heathcote, Lakes Entrance, Numurkah, Robinvale, Rochester, St Arnaud and Warracknabeal, and included almost 500 people.
Community members can register to use the Flying Doctor Community Transport service by calling the program support team on 7046 4664.
