Eee-ew! Ishy, squishy tomato reeney; Splat! Right on my face. Oohey, gooey tomato rooney All over the place. Tomato gunge in my hair, Dangling off my shoe. Up my nose, Behind my ears. What can I do? Slushy, mushy tomato pulp Flying through the air. La Tomatina in full swing This means TOMATO WARFARE!
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!
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.
