The Royal Flying Doctor Service South Eastern Section (RFDS SE) will open the doors of its Broken Hill Base to the public on Saturday, 21 May. The Open Day will be a celebration of the founding of the Section 80 years ago. Entry is free and members of the public and supporters will be invited to tour the museum, take an exclusive look behind the scenes in the vintage Bellman hangar, and get on board an RFDS Kingair aircraft.

Highlights include displays of a dozen vintage aircraft such as the De Havilland Dragon and Drover aircraft, flown by the RFDS SE between the 1930s and 1950s. There will be a unique opportunity to get on board both a current RFDS aircraft- with full medical fit-out, as well as the mobile education unit, a life-sized replica of an RFDS SE Kingair aircraft. Visitors will also be able to meet flying doctors, flight nurses and pilots, who will be on hand to talk about their work and perform emergency demonstrations.

“We would like to welcome everyone to the Base for a great day out on this special occasion,” says Greg Sam, CEO of the RFDS SE Section. “We are honoured to have such a long connection with the Broken Hill community and invite everyone to come along and see how the Base operates.”

“This Open Day also marks the launch of our Heritage Project. We are very proud of our history and want to ensure that it is recognised and preserved for future generations.”

A display of historical photos, including a collection of unseen images covering the past 80 years of RFDS services in the area will supplement the museum exhibits. The exhibit includes examples of early radio communications, aviation and medical equipment, along with the Reverend John Flynn’s desk and a Medical Chest. Two interactive displays also include an audio-visual simulation of an emergency call from a station in the 1950s.

Official limited edition 80th anniversary merchandise will also be available at the Visitors’ Centre shop and a special 20% storewide discount will apply to all merchandise on the day.

Face painting from The Outback Mobile Resource Unit, a merry-go-round, as well as various food and beverage stalls ensure this will be a great day out for all the family.

Open Day:
Who: The RFDS SE Broken Hill Base team
What: RFDS SE Section 80th Anniversary celebration including:
Broken Hill Open Day
When: Saturday 21 May, 10am to 3pm
Where: RFDS SE Section Base, Hangar 2, Broken Hill Airport. Parking available.