MAROONA - Maroona Primary School children got a close up look at the work of the Flying Doctors, with a visit to the school by the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Victoria.
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The visit included the aero-medical simulator, a life-sized replica of a Flying Doctors plane fuselage fitted with communications and medical equipment, which gives students some hands-on knowledge of the work of the RFDS throughout Australia.
The Look! Up in the Sky Education Program also explains the important role the Royal Flying Doctor Service has played in Australia since it started in 1928, and includes key learning areas such as history, geography, maths, English and health.
Today the Royal Flying Doctor Service attends to over 295,000 patients annually, or more than 800 every day, performs some 37,000 aero-medical evacuations and conducts about 15,000 healthcare clinics per year.
Look! Up in the Sky Education Program manager, Tom Ryan, said kids loved learning about the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the aero-medical simulator that is part of the visits.
"The simulator is an actual size version of an RFDS plane complete with medical equipment. Kids are encouraged to try everything on, push buttons and get an idea what it's like to be a pilot, nurse or doctor on a Flying Doctor plane."
RFDS Victoria delivers air and road transport and rural health programs, as well as raising funds for emergency equipment in other parts of Australia.
Mr Ryan said public support and generous donations by Victorians played a crucial role in keeping the Flying Doctor flying.
"Our loyal and generous supporters enable us to continue providing the finest care to the furthest corner," he said.
To donate to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Victoria or organise a school visit call the RFDS Victoria on (03) 8412 0400 or go to www.flyingdoctor.org.au
