By Peter Douglas
Yering Primary School students on Wednesday 17 May took the opportunity to embrace a special visit from the Royal Australian Flying Doctors.
As part of a national education program, educator Tom Ryan brought with him a replica fuselage of a Pilatus PC-12 for the students to explore, which comes complete with flight simulator, and replica medical and communications equipment.
Parents and children enjoyed a presentation from Mr Ryan, who spoke about the importance and growth of the service over the decades.
“It’s about giving kids an awareness of how big Australia is and the importance of this service,” he said.
“So there’s a geography and history aspect to the sessions as well.”
In a quirk of fate, the visit coincided with the 89th birthday of the Royal Australian Flying Doctors.
“On 17 May 1928, the Flying Doctors was formed, so it’s extra reason to celebrate,” Mr Ryan said.
“There is great Australian spirit and community goodwill that surrounds the Flying Doctors.
“This is a great way to impart that to the children.”
Mr Ryan said the service now boasted 70 aircraft, helping around 800 people per day Australia-wide.
Principal Deanne Cole said the students warmly received the visit, which potentially may inspire another generation of nurses and doctors who may one day work with the Flying Doctors.
