A Bundaberg woman who dedicates her time to raising funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service has been recognised as one of the region’s unsung heroes.
A video featuring president of Bundaberg RFDS Auxiliary Carolyn Saffron has recently been released as part of her nomination for the RFDS Local Hero Award 2019.
“It’s such an honour,” she said.
“I’m actually a bit embarrassed I suppose because I am not someone looking for glory.
“We work hard because we like doing the job.”
Mrs Saffron has been with the local RFDS fundraising group since 2010.
“Having come from Victoria, I didn’t realise how big Queensland was and going through cancer in a regional town made me really realise how important the flying doctors are,” she said.
“It just made me appreciate the medical system.”
Starting out as treasurer and moving to the president position, Mrs Saffron has dedicated hours to raise money at various events and festivals.
“I have met so many people; that’s what I love the most,” she said.
“They always have a story to tell about how they were helped by the RFDS, it is very touching to hear.”
Mrs Saffron said the people she met were very generous in their donations and it was those who donated, as well as the rest of her team, that made her volunteer work so rewarding.
“We have nearly 40 members as part of our Bundaberg group and without them, I couldn’t do this position I am in now,” she said.
“We have raised very close to half a million dollars since the time I began with the RFDS- that’s a lot of sausage sizzles!”
Watch and vote for RFDS winner
The Bundaberg Local Hero 2019 clip, by Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia, was posted to YouTube this week featuring Mrs Saffron.
Eight other videos of each Queensland nominee have also been posted.
Now, the community are being asked to celebrate their contributions by voting for the RFDS 2019 Queensland Hero.
To get involved, watch the inspiring stories and vote for one or more of these incredible Local Hero Award winners.
You won’t just be saying thanks, you’ll be boosting their chance of winning a $7500 community health grant to improve health, medical or emergency facilities in their town or region.
