A NOT-FOR-PROFIT organisation is making a life-changing impact for regional and rural Queenslanders struggling to access vital medical treatment.
Community Flights, a registered charity, provides free aircraft transport for patients and their carers to attend non-emergency medical appointments and services across Southeast Queensland.
The initiative was launched in 2022 by Mark McMurtrie, the owner of River Heads Pharmacy, after hearing countless stories from customers unable to access specialist treatment in the region.
With long-distance travel posing significant financial and emotional challenges for those needing heart, brain, and cancer therapy, McMurtrie took action to ensure that no one would have to forgo treatment due to their location.
"We recognised that healthcare accessibility is a major barrier for many regional patients," McMurtrie said.
"Our mission is simple – to close that gap and make sure people can receive the care they need without the added burden of travel."
The demand for medical transport is immense, with over 440 patients requiring assistance each month from Hervey Bay and Bundaberg alone.
To meet this need, McMurtrie now pilots his Hervey Bay-based aircraft alongside a dedicated team of 10 volunteer pilots.
Together, they transport patients safely and free of charge to specialist appointments across the region.
In addition to pilots, Community Flights relies on ground support from volunteers who coordinate flight schedules, assist patients with boarding, and ensure smooth operations.
The service not only alleviates financial stress but also provides emotional relief for patients who might otherwise face exhausting road trips or unaffordable commercial flights.
Community Flights relies on community support to sustain and expand its vital service.
The organisation encourages individuals and businesses to contribute through donations, sponsorships, volunteering, or by participating in its monthly online cash prize raffle.
"Every contribution helps us keep this service running and ensures that patients can continue their treatment without financial strain," McMurtrie added.
"We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our supporters, who help make a real difference in people's lives."
To subscribe to their monthly online cash prize raffle, donate, become a sponsor or volunteer, or to request a flight please go to our website at www.communityflights.org.au
