Meet the Flying Doctor’s female pilots

March 20, 2024March 20, 2024

Article supplied by RFDS Every March, Women of Aviation Worldwide Week is held in recognition of French Aviator Raymonde de Laroche becoming the first woman to be issued a flying licence on 8 March 1910.

The RFDS is proud of the women on our aviation team who followed in the footsteps of Raymonde de Laroche.

For the RFDS, Women of Aviation Worldwide Week marks an important opportunity to highlight the valuable contributions made by the women in our aviation teams, and to encourage more women and girls to consider a career in aviation.

To mark the week, we reached out to our five female pilots at RFDS SA/NT to ask them what their job means to them. Here’s what they said...

Heather Ford – Pilot/Training & Checking Coordinator, Adelaide Base

“I know celebrating five female pilots in RFDS SA/NT may sound cheesy or corny, however it is a major achievement for the organisation to be proud of. Aviation can be quite challenging, especially as there have been a lot of opinions and behaviours formed in the 60s and 70s. These industry norms have slowly changed over my career in aviation, and I look forward to seeing it completely change in the not-to-distant future… Given that the industry figure worldwide is approximately five to six per cent, we are a minority. It is essential to promote the number of lady pilots that the RFDS has, for many reasons, but my main one is so that the young girls can see they can be pilots, astronauts, engineers, doctors and they can start imagining themselves in those positions and make it a reality.”

Jessica Dettmer – Pilot, Adelaide Base

“It’s been my childhood dream to come work for the RFDS and I am extremely grateful to now work along such dedicated, knowledgeable, and experienced flight and medical crews. Digging into the aeromedical side has been a fresh yet rewarding challenge for me and I enjoy how every day is something new. I also love the balance of living in the city, but still having chance to venture outback. Each day I am part of a team to improve care and enhance the lives of those who need it most, and that’s incredibly fulfilling.”

Kellie Job – Pilot, Alice Springs Base

“I’ve been an aeromedical pilot for six years and am still privileged to be a part of people’s stories. We only see people for a small part of what in many cases is a long journey to recovery for them and their families, but being part of an amazing team that puts so much care into caring for our patients for that brief period of time to try and make their journey that little bit easier is what being a part of the RFDS means to me.”

Laura Koerbin – Pilot, Adelaide Base

“Flying for the RFDS is meaningful to me as it allows me to feel deeply rewarded by the work I do every day. I’m thankful on the daily to be able to work with such a talented and like-minded team of experts, delivering 24/7 care to all corners of the state. Working for the RFDS means I am excited to come to work every day and see first-hand the impact my role can have on someone’s life. I wanted to work for the RFDS as a means of giving back to the community and it’s so rewarding and meaningful to me to be able to see that happening with every job. This is a role that pushes me to keep challenging myself, to be flexible and adaptable, and to always be learning from the people I work with. It’s my dream job and I’m very lucky to love what I do.”

Ellie Gray – Pilot, Alice Springs Base

“I’m passionate about service to the community, especially rural and remote communities, and I love flying. The RFDS brings everything together in a strong and professional organisation, with an inspiring legacy. I’m proud to serve my community as part of the RFDS.”

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Dan Hamood was opal fossicking when he fell into a mine shaft

March 20, 2024March 20, 2024

Article supplied by RFDS

In this gripping episode of The Flying Doctor Podcast, we hear the harrowing tale of Dan Hammoud, an opal miner and concreter from Monash, South Australia, who narrowly escaped death after falling into a 22-meter-deep mine shaft near Coober Pedy.

Despite the odds stacked against him, Dan’s survival story is a testament to resilience, community, and the vital role of services like the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

The story highlights the challenges and dangers of being trapped in a remote location with serious injuries and limited resources.

Dan’s resourcefulness, resilience, and quick thinking played a crucial role in his survival.

For Dan, opal mining is more than just a hobby – it’s a way of life. He describes it as a release, a way to escape the monotony of everyday life and be stimulated by the challenges and excitement of mining.

Despite the dangers of mining in a remote and harsh environment like Coober Pedy, Dan finds solace in the solitude and adventure that comes with the territory.

The incident occurred when Dan, out blacklighting for opals at night, accidentally stepped into a deep mine shaft, plummeting 22 meters into darkness.

With a broken femur and arm, Dan found himself trapped at the bottom of the shaft, alone and without water for nearly 24 hours.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service played a crucial role in Dan’s survival, airlifting him to Adelaide for urgent medical care.

Dan’s rescue, however, was not without its challenges, highlighting the difficulties of accessing medical assistance in remote areas.

Dan’s story has prompted discussions within the mining community about the importance of safety protocols and the need for greater awareness of the risks associated with opal mining.

While opal mining is undoubtedly a rewarding pursuit, it also carries inherent dangers that cannot be ignored.

One of the key lessons from Dan’s experience is the importance of never becoming complacent when working in high-risk environments.

Dan’s advice to always be aware of one’s surroundings and to avoid taking unnecessary risks resonates strongly with fellow miners, who recognize the need for heightened vigilance in the field.

Moreover, Dan’s emphasis on the value of having a companion when exploring the opal fields underscores the importance of looking out for one another’s safety.

In remote regions where help may be hours away, having a partner can mean the difference between life and death.

As Dan continues his recovery, his story serves as a cautionary tale for miners everywhere.

While the allure of opal mining may be irresistible, it is essential to prioritize safety above all else.

Dan’s brush with death serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of taking every precaution to ensure a safe return home.

In conclusion, Dan Hammoud’s near-death experience has sparked important conversations within the mining community about the need for greater safety awareness and precautions.

His story serves as a wake-up call for miners to prioritize safety and vigilance in their pursuit of precious gems.

As the mining community comes together to reflect on Dan’s ordeal, there is hope that his experience will lead to positive changes that prevent similar accidents in the future.

If you haven’t listened to the episode yet, head over to The Flying Doctor Podcast and give it a listen. And don’t forget to share this inspiring story with your friends and family!

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Plan to improve colour vision deficiency policy for pilots

March 20, 2024March 20, 2024

Article supplied by CASA Work is underway to settle and formalise colour vision testing options for pilots who are not able to pass clinical colour vision tests.

Our aim is to have new testing options available for pilots by the end of April that are formally prescribed through a legislative instrument. The tests will recognise that many pilots with a colour vision deficiency can demonstrate they are able to operate safely and competently without any medical or operational restrictions.

Consultation is currently underway through our Aviation Safety Advisory Panel, and public consultation on the proposed testing options is expected before the end of March.

The options will include an operational test designed to demonstrate a pilot’s ability to fly an aircraft safely through a robust and standardised operational test.

Interim measures

Pilots who are unable to pass the prescribed Ishihara or Farnsworth colour vision clinical tests and are seeking to renew their medical certificate are encouraged to call our Aviation Medicine team on 131 757 to discuss their individual circumstances.

We will work hard to ensure this interim period is as least disruptive as possible, whilst satisfying current safety and regulatory requirements.

Draft instrument for Class 5 self declaration medical reform

February 14, 2024February 14, 2024

AOPA class 5 medical self declaration reform

Article suplied by AOPA

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Australia encourages all of our members and national supporters to download the DRAFT CASA EX**/24 Instrument for Class 5 Self-Declaration and to provide your direct feedback to both the Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the Minister for Infrastructure.

DOWNLOAD THE DRAFT INSTRUMENT

Click to Download: CASA EX**/24 – Class 5 Medical Self-Declarations Exemption 2023 – DRAFT

SUBMIT YOUR FEEDBACK TO:

Pip Spence
Director of Aviation Safety
Civil Aviation Safety Authority
Email: pip.spence@casa.gov.au

Catherine King MP
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport & Regional Development
Email: Minister.King@mo.infrastructure.gov.au

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New Class 5 medical self declaration scheme now available

February 14, 2024February 14, 2024

Article supplied by CASA

A new Class 5 medical self-declaration scheme is now available to recreational and private pilots.

The new scheme will allow pilots to fly in aircraft up to 2000kg with one passenger if they self-assess and self-declare their health status, meet fitness and eligibility requirements and pass an online test.

Late last year we consulted on the draft policy proposal with feedback indicating that some of the operational limitations and excluded medical conditions were too restrictive.

As this is the first of its kind in Australia, we are taking an iterative and initially conservative approach.

The scheme is based on comprehensive risk analysis and a careful examination of what other safety authorities do overseas. It includes operational limitations on what you can do when flying with a Class 5.

We will also conduct a post implementation review and consider some of the current exclusions and effectiveness of the self-declaration scheme as well as progress a Class 4 certificate that will create more operational flexibility with the involvement of a GP.

To support applicants and healthcare practitioners, we have developed an online training module and comprehensive guidance material.

Pilots can apply through the myCASA portal.

Learn more about the Class 5 medical self-declaration.

Apply or renew your ASIC Card now

RFDS named Australia’s most reputable charity

February 14, 2024February 14, 2024

Article supplied by RFDS

Australia’s Most Reputable Charity. Twelve times.

The RFDS was recently recognised as Australia’s Most Reputable Charity for the 12th time in Reptrak’s annual charity and not-for-profit study (2023).

Reptrak’s independent survey measures key areas such as trust, admiration, respect and overall esteem within the Australian charity sector.

Health and wellbeing remain a clear priority for all Australians with each of the five leading charities focussed on the physical health and wellbeing of Australians.

“A patient’s trust in their medical services is vital – particularly if they are living in locations that don’t have easy access to the services enjoyed in our cities,” RFDS Federation Executive Director, Frank Quinlan said.

“At the RFDS, we are humbled that we continue to earn the public’s trust in the provision of emergency medical and primary healthcare services to rural, regional and remote Australia. It gives us great pride to know that communities and families rely on us – and we are honoured to do such work. Our thanks go to every staff member, volunteer and supporter who is part of the RFDS team.”

This 2023 Charity RepTrak® survey result is testament to RFDS strong partnerships and relationships across the country, as well as the wonderful ongoing efforts of first responders, locals that clear and light dirt airstrips, long-serving custodians of medical chests, rural hosts for clinics, volunteers, fundraisers, sponsors, donors and supporters.

We thank them all for their tireless work to keep Aussies safe.

What is the Australian Charity Reputation (RepTrak®) Index?

For years, RepTrak (formerly known as the Reputation Institute) has published the Australian Charity Reputation Index, which ranks Australia’s 40 largest charities using a scoring system measuring areas such as trust, admiration, respect and overall esteem.

Measuring the perceptions of the community, the RepTrak index is focuses of seven drivers of reputation: Citizenship, Services, Innovation, Conduct, Leadership, Workplace and Cost Management.

This year, the RFDS scored a total of 96.6 points (out of 100), followed by Guide Dogs (93.3), The Fred Hollows Foundation (92.6), St John Ambulance (92.5) and Surf Life Saving Australia (92.3) rounding out the top five.

RFDS celebrates 200 helicopter retrievals

January 4, 2024January 4, 2024

Article supplied by RFDS

200 patients of all ages have been transferred by the Fortescue Heli-Med Service EC145 helicopters since they joined the RFDS fleet 18 months ago.

The RFDS WA is celebrating 200 patient retrievals in the Fortescue Heli-Med Service EC145 helicopters.

It comes 18 months since the hospital-to-hospital service was launched, with the two helicopters adding versatility to the RFDS aircraft fleet.

The most common retrieval site is Rottnest Island (33) followed by Bunbury (23) and Narrogin (20.) In total, patients have been transferred from 45 different locations, with sportsgrounds often used as a landing pad in regional towns.

The helicopters can land on rooftop heli-pads at Perth tertiary hospitals including Fiona Stanley Hospital, Royal Perth Hospital, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth Children’s Hospital and King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women, drastically reducing road travel time in an ambulance.

Mostly used for retrievals within a 250 kilometre radius of Jandakot Airport, the Heli-Med service was able to expand its service area when charity Rapid Relief Team (RRT) donated 800L weatherproof fuel bunds to the wheatbelt towns of Cunderdin, Katanning and Dalwallinu in September.

“On certain flights, mainly because of weather, the rotary team need to refuel enroute before arriving at the retrieval destination,” Elaine Cadzow, Rotary Fleet Manager explained.

“The donation of the fuel bunds has allowed the Fortescue Heli-Med Service to carry the additional fuel reserves required on windy days to fly to Katanning, Cunderdin or Dalwallinu, pick up the patient and then onto a Perth tertiary hospital”.

Patients of all ages have used the service, including 13 babies and children aged 9 and under, and four aged in their 90s.

Pictured is Hines Hill mother Jess Silver, whose daughter Lexie was the first baby transferred by the Newborn Emergency Transfer Service (NETS) using the Heli-Med service, flying from Merredin Oval to the rooftop heli-pad at PCH in just 45 minutes.

RFDS Statement – Queensland Section – Nurses EBA

January 4, 2024January 4, 2024

Article supplied by RFDS

Our nurses have voted over the past three days on the proposed RFDS enterprise agreement. They have been highly engaged in the ballot process with a 90% participation rate, and voted 43% in favour and 57% against.

We respect the decision of our nurses and remain committed to working in good faith with them and the union to reach an agreement as soon as we can, so that we can increase our nurses’ pay.

We offered our nurses a 13% increase over three years, backdated to 1 July 2023. We believe it’s a fair offer that compares with the rest of the healthcare sector, including Queensland Health nurses.

The increase we offered would have cost the RFDS more than $3.2 million over three years and was as much as we can afford.

As a charity, we receive critical Federal and State Government funding each year, and despite that, we run at an operational deficit. As a result, we rely on donors and fundraising to cover that gap, and we are extremely grateful to the people who support us and the critical services we provide.

Like everybody, we are also facing increased operational costs like wages, aircraft fuel, parts and equipment, and the cost of maintaining our bases and aircraft. We need to ensure we are sustainable for the communities we serve and continue to provide our services as we have done for the last 95 years.

We are incredibly grateful to our nurses who work tirelessly to provide skilled and compassionate care.

Improvements to Ballina airspace to come into effect in 2025

January 4, 2024January 4, 2024

Article supplied by CASA

Airspace around Ballina Airport will be controlled by air traffic controllers from 2025 as the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Airservices Australia move to develop services to accommodate the airport’s growth.

The announcement follows an airspace review conducted in 2022 by CASA which included extensive feedback from industry and subsequent discussions with Airservices on timing for the establishment of controlled airspace and air traffic services.

CASA has issued a direction to establish controlled airspace from 2025 and will work closely with Airservices to support airspace design.

The first phase will see the airspace reclassified and an approach control service provided by Airservices by 12 June 2025.

The second phase will see the establishment of a new aerodrome control service by Airservices no later than 27 November 2025.

The establishment of enhanced air traffic services comes on the back of sustained growth in air traffic in the region and is part of a graduated approach to safely accommodate further growth.

‘When we review airspace it’s important that we look not only at what is happening today, but also to look at growth trends in recent years and what operators are predicting into the future,’ CASA Branch Manager Air Navigation, Airspace and Aerodromes Adrian Slootjes said.

‘We consider a range of data and information, look at incidents and occurrences and take a risk-based approach to our recommendations.

‘While there have been a range of incremental changes and enhancements in aviation safety in the region, we consider that these additional changes are required to ensure the safety of passenger transport operations and all airspace users in and around Ballina.’

Improvements already made around Ballina include changes to radio frequencies used by pilots to reduce congestion, provision of a Surveillance Flight Information Service (SFIS) to provide pilots with information about other aircraft in the area, and the introduction of an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast ground station to allow appropriately equipped aircraft to be more easily detected by air traffic control.

Work on an Airspace Change Proposal outlining details of the new service and aimed at ensuring it meets necessary requirements will continue throughout 2024.

The timing also allows CASA and Airservices to engage with aviation and community stakeholders, including the sports and recreational aviation community, about safely accessing controlled airspace.

2023 Year in Review

November 1, 2023November 1, 2023

Article supplied by RFDS

Your Flying Doctor exists to support healthier and happier Australians, no matter where they live, work or play. Check out our 2022/23 Year in Review.