JUST one week remains to vote for the 2020 Queensland RFDS Local Hero.

Last month, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) (RFDS) announced nine regional Local Hero Award winners – each representing one of its base locations.

All have donated their and energy during the past year to keep the Flying Doctor in the air and assisting the communities which need it the most.

RFDS, Queensland Section, CEO Meredith Staib said Queenslanders were now encouraged to vote for a statewide winner.

“Over the first two weeks of voting, more than 6,000 votes have been cast, which is incredible,” she said.

“I thank everyone who has taken the time to head to the RFDS Local Hero website and view the videos highlighting the efforts of our supporters, before casting their vote. One week still remains to vote if you haven’t done so already.”

Ms Staib said the 2020 Queensland RFDS Local Hero would receive a $7,500 grant, courtesy of Ergon Energy Retail, to be used to deliver a service or program that promotes healthcare in their community.

Susan McDonald, the 2020 RFDS Local Hero Award winner for the Charleville region, said if voted the Queensland winner, she would use the grant to purchase and distribute defibrillators to properties across the region.

“We have a defibrillator at the pub, but that is still an hour and a half away,” Mrs McDonald said.

“Time is critical when people are having a heart attack, so by purchasing defibrillators for all of the surrounding properties in the region, including ours which is on the main road to the national park, we could ensure there is always help nearby if people need it.

“We would also look at putting special defibrillator indication signs on all of the property signs as well, so tourists are aware of their locations.”

The annual Local Hero Awards are proudly supported by Ergon Energy Retail, Seven News Queensland and Queensland Country Life.

Vote for the 2020 Queensland RFDS Local Hero by visiting www.rfdslocalhero.com.au/