Nick Clarke met and spoke with many people during his epic 17-day fundraising journey around Queensland including Mayors and local dignitaries, but it was a two-year old girl from outback Queensland that made the biggest impact.
The Redland City Council Organisational Services General Manager landed back in the Redlands today, bringing to an end a fundraising flight that saw him visit 42 towns across Queensland to raise awareness and money for the charity Angel Flight.
“We have met several of the patients who have been assisted by Angel Flight during our journey, including a two-year old girl who has taken no less than 16 Angel Flight trips to Brisbane from her home in Thargomindah,” he said.
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“These stories are very touching and show the real difference Angel Flight makes in the lives of remote Australians in overcoming the tyranny of distance when they find themselves in need of access to major hospital and treatment centres.”
Nick and co-pilot and University of Queensland professor, Mike Levy touched down at Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island today (Wed 28 Aug) after visiting 42 cities and towns raising more than $30,000 for the cause.
“We received a fantastic welcome and people were very supportive,” he said.
“The journey was not only about raising funds, just as importantly we spread the word about the fantastic work Angel Flight does in these remote areas.”
Nick and Mike were welcomed home at a special event at Dunwich where Redland City Mayor Karen Williams presented Nick with a cheque for $1500 from Redland City Council.
While he has been involved in fundraising for Angel Flight for a number of years, Nick said his journey has strengthened his resolve.
“What really inspired me to take on this project was understanding that very sick men, women and children living in remote communities have to deal with travelling long distances to major centres and when you’re not feeling well, that’s the last thing you want to do,” he said.
“But what hit me emotionally on this trip was meeting families who Angel Flight has helped keep together during treatment. It is this emotional assistance that many value most.”
People can still donate for Nick’s cause at www.angelflight.org.au.
