The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) in Bundaberg will take to the skies with essential supplies and equipment to keep their crew safe amid COVID-19.
Hand Heart Pocket the Charity of Freemasons Queensland has provided a $9,220 COVID-19 Emergency Community Grant to the aeromedical operator to purchase personal protective equipment to help minimise the spread of COVID-19.
The grant will also be used in purchasing a disinfectant fog machine, which will allow for more thorough cleaning of the aircraft.
RFDS Chief Executive Officer Meredith Staib said the new equipment was essential in their fight against the spread of COVID-19.
“The disinfectant fog machine is particularly valuable as it will allow us to quickly but thoroughly clean the aircraft before and after we transport patients.
“We have seen a surge in demand for our services since the beginning of the pandemic and minimising its spread to remote and rural communities is paramount.”
Corinthian Royal Arch Chapter representative Col Hay said they nominated the Bundaberg Royal Flying Doctor Service for the grant.
“This is an organisation that we have supported over many years here in the Wide Bay, so it’s wonderful to know that we’ve been able to make a difference during these difficult times,” Mr Hay said.
Hand Heart Pocket Chief Executive Officer Gary Mark said the charity was focused on assisting its existing charity partners and working with Freemason Lodges to increase support at a grassroots level during the Coronavirus pandemic.
“So far, Hand Heart Pocket has provided around $700,000 in COVID-19 emergency support and Grassroots Community Grants to charities across Queensland during the pandemic,” Gary said.
“Bundaberg RFDS provides an essential service for the region, and we are glad we could provide this extra support to frontline staff at a time when their community needs them the most.”
