Walk, Run, or Ride in October to Deliver Life-Saving Healthcare to Rural and Remote Aussies
After covering an incredible 1,275,685kms last year, Australians are being called to push even further in the third annual Oceans to Outback fitness challenge this October, raising vital funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). The month-long event encourages participants to walk, run, or cycle a set distance, ensuring the RFDS can continue delivering essential healthcare to some of the most isolated communities in the world.
More than just a fundraiser, Oceans to Outback is a lifeline for communities where local health services are scarce, and the RFDS plays an irreplaceable role. “If it wasn’t for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and their generous donors I wouldn’t be here today”, says Andrew, a patient from rural South Australia. From emergency medical retrievals to regular primary healthcare, the RFDS provides vital support, bridging the gap for over 100,000 Australians each year who would otherwise have little or no access to care.
“The RFDS is the connection between life and death for many living in rural and remote parts of Australia,” said RFDS Federation Executive Director Frank Quinlan. “Without our services, the health and wellbeing of these communities would be severely compromised. This challenge is not only about improving your own fitness but also ensuring that we can keep delivering healthcare where it's needed most.”
Participants can choose their own distance for the challenge or be inspired by RFDS milestones such as:
- 42km – 1 km for every 1,000 Australians who can't access basic healthcare.
- 96km – 1 km for every year the RFDS has Provided life-saving healthcare.
- 1,060km – 1 km for every patient helped by the RFDS each day.
“The RFDS goes beyond emergencies. We offer GP and nurse clinics, dental services, mental health support, and patient transfers, ensuring communities stay healthy and connected,” Quinlan added. “This October, challenge yourself and know that you’re directly impacting people who rely on us as their only access to healthcare.”
The Oceans to Outback challenge officially begins on Tuesday, October 1, 2024. Registrations are open now at oceanstooutback.org.au, where participants can sign up and track their progress.