A YEAR-long fundraising effort from the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Gawler and District Support Group has seen them raise a total of $8000.

The money was raised through a variety of channels that included donation tins, a movie night, Christmas raffle, and other donations from the community.

It was donated to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Central Operations, with a cheque presented at the group’s annual general meeting on October 6.

RFDS volunteer fundraising specialist Lindy Allchurch was present at the meeting to receive the donation.

Ms Allchurch thanked the RFDS Gawler and District Support Group for their “outstanding contribution” to the service, having raised more than $134,000 since fundraising began in 2007.

RFDS Gawler and District Support Group’s president Garry Woods praised the crucial role that the RFDS played in providing care to rural South Australians.

“The RFDS performs 15 aeromedical evacuations in South Australia every day, transporting a patient for life-saving surgery or specialist medical treatment. We’re proud to show our support for an organisation that makes such a big difference in our state,” he said.

Those funds have allowed the RFDS to purchase life-saving equipment, which included the delivery of the world’s first purpose-built aeromedical jet in 2019.

Having completed its first year of service in August this year, the RFDS Medi-Jet 24 has visited every state and territory in Australia, airlifted more than 320 patients and saved more than 360 flying hours in getting patients to life-saving care.

New members of the RFDs Gawler and District Support Group are always welcome. To enquire, contact Garry Woods on 0438 831 522.