The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) is a step closer to establishing a much-needed new base in Broome.
The Federal Government has just committed $2.7 million to the project … but the RFDS says it will not be able to start construction until it secures state funding. The organisation is planning to establish a $20 million facility at Broome airport to increase the number of medical staff and planes on-call.
The number of patients requiring transfer to Broome has increased 230% since 2005. Grey nomads travelling in remote Kimberley regions are among the many who have been helped by the flying doctors
RFDS spokesman Nick Harvey told the ABC that the service is still a year to 18 months away from having the facility built.
“The $2.7 million grant from the Federal Government is a fantastic start but at this point in time, we won’t be able to start construction,” he said. “Establishing the new base in Broome will cost approximately $20 million.”
He said the project was dependent on funding support being received from government, the corporate sector, and fundraising from the community. The RFDS says it is has put a funding application in with the State Government and is hopeful of a positive outcome with that.
Comment below
As a traveller I like to take every opportunity to donate to this invaluable service. Whilst we can endeavour to take care and responsibility for our own safety and well-being, none of us can foresee accidents etc, and the possibility of needing the RFDS. I wish the Service well in getting the Broome facility up and running in the not too distant future.