RFDS local hero awards 2020

The RFDS local hero awards, which are in their fifth year, give people the chance to nominate volunteers and fundraisers who give back to the service.

RFDS (Queensland Section) CEO Meredith Staib said the awards shone a light on cummunity members who assisted the work of RFDS.

"Every year we are overwhelmed at the incredible stories that emerge - of people who selflessly act as the first responders to an emergency before we arrive, or people who have dedicated decades of their lives raising funds or assisting our primary health care teams in outback clinics," Ms Staib said.

"It's hard to express how grateful we are for everyone who supports the Flying Doctor, but we like to think the RFDS Local Hero Awards are at least a start.

"It's also an occasion that allows us to thank the support we receive from of our major partners Ergon Energy Retail, Seven News Queensland and Queensland Country Life who help us acknowledge the contributions of these hidden heroes, we couldn't do it without them."

Ergon Energy Retail executive general manager Cheryl Hopkins said the business was proud to extend its support to recognise the outstanding efforts of regional Queenslanders through the awards.

"Every year the nominations get better and better and last year I was amazed at the lengths community members went to in assisting the RFDS. I'm really looking forward to hearing about this year's heroes and sharing who they are," Ms Hopkins said.

"This year marks 20 years since we partnered with the Flying Doctor in Queensland - with more than 165,000 Ergon Retail customers helping raise almost $15 million in that time."

Nine local hero finalists from across Queensland's branches will be named on May 19, with an overall state winner being announced at the RFDS Wings for Life Gala in Brisbane on July 18, where they will receive a $7500 grant to go toward health care initiatives in their community.

To nominate visit www.rfdslocalhero.com.au by March 29.