It’s a rugged, wild wilderness
with ancient cliffs and rocks,
endless skies of brilliant blue
and finches fly in flocks.
Where the Desert Pea blooms
its flowers red and black;
sprouting up when raindrops fall
way off the beaten track.

They’re practical by nature
resilient and strong,
take pride in where they love to live
though distances are long.
While working in The Outback
on sheep or cattle station,
their warmth and witty humour
are the heartbeat of our nation.
When living far away from town

and all we take for granted,
should injury or illness strike
The Outback’s less enchanted.
In days of old and torn between
to travel or to wait,
would damp the dust with salty tears
when help came way too late.

Inspired by a letter
and seeing those in need,
kind and caring Reverend Flynn
prepared to plant the seed.
Wings would give them speedy flight;
too many lives were lost
for people of the great Outback,
‘twas time to curb the cost.

So at last it came to be;
more interest surely grew.
Bright sparks came from all around
to share in what they knew.
Flynn’s dream for Outback folk
was fuelled by those who dare,
then “Victory” over distance flew
first patients through the air!

Urgent calls would not be heard
in situations dire.
Precious time forever lost
by words along the wire.
A clever plan soon began
to save the darkest hour;
the Doctor’s voice, a faster choice
with Traeger’s Pedal Power!

The Service grew with changing times
to what we have today.
If Flynn could share a word or two,
I wonder what he’d say?
“ We’re helping people way Outback
exactly as we should.”
and maybe with a dash of pride
“I think it’s pretty good.”

Come and see the splendid hues
of sunset and sunrise,
the silent still of nighttime
‘neath clear and twinkling skies.
These days have greater safety now
for all who come Outback.
Our Flying Doctor’s on the wing
way off the beaten track!

Photo from Royal Flying Doctor Service image library

Author’s note: For your understanding, the line “Inspired by a letter” refers to a letter that Reverend John Flynn received from a young medical student during World War 1. He had the idea of an aerial medical service. Reverend John Flynn was a visionary man who was very aware of tragic medical outcomes in The Outback. He was the driver behind getting medical care to Outback people. “Victory” is the name of the first aircraft to undertake transport of patients/doctors to The Outback. “With Traeger’s Pedal Power” refers to the improvement in communication between the service and Outback people. Prior to this invention (two-way radio) emergencies were communicated along telegraph wires which was very slow.