A MILESTONE was met yesterday with Ergon Energy Retail celebrated its fifteen year partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) in Queensland at a ceremony held at the Townsville airport.
Ergon Energy Retail Executive General Manager Roslyn Baker said the company and its customers were proud supporters of the RFDS Queensland as it provided vital health services to remote and rural Queenslanders.
"With families spread throughout the state of Queensland, many in regional communities, they see first-hand the important role the RFDS has in supporting regional and remote Queenslanders," Ms Baker said.
"We are pleased that more than 100,000 customers, including Ergon employees, have made voluntary donations to the RFDS through their energy bills during the past 15 years," she said.
"Even in times of adversity, such as cyclones, floods and droughts, many people continue to find a few extra dollars to help contribute to keeping the service flying. Their donations have raised more than $9 million for the RFDS since the scheme started and we are well on our way to reaching the $10million target this year.
"As a regional Queensland company, Ergon Energy Retail appreciates the great work of the RFDS and we are proud to continue our partnership through the signing of a new two year sponsorship."
CEO of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) Nino Di Marco said the RFDS was delighted to be celebrating its fifteen year partnership with Ergon Energy Retail and pleased to be signing up for another two year sponsorship deal.
"The RFDS deeply values our strong partnership, and is grateful that Ergon Energy Retail's customers and employees recognise the vital need of the Flying Doctor's aeromedical services as well as the broad range of health care programs we deliver including general practice, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, child and family health, social and emotional wellbeing, women's health, oral health and health promotion activities" Mr Di Marco said.
"In Queensland, the RFDS has a fleet of 19 aircraft which operate from nine strategically positioned regional bases across Queensland. As well as responding to emergency calls for help, these aircraft also play a vital role in transferring the seriously ill or injured to and from acute hospitals for treatment," he said.
"Last year alone, our Townsville based aeromedical crews airlifted close to 2500 patients and conducted over 1400 patient consults."
