AWN’s 22-Year Commitment to RFDS: Over $273,000 Raised for vital Rural Healthcare

<< Back to News & Media
AWN team members presenting donation cheques to the Royal Flying Doctor Service across multiple regional wool auction sites, with wool bales and banners in the background.
AWN proudly supported the Royal Flying Doctor Service through our charity auctions held in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle.

For more than two decades, AWN has supported the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) through charity auctions held at selling centres in Sydney, Melbourne, and Fremantle. Since the initiative began 22 years ago, these auctions have raised over $273,000 to help deliver vital healthcare services across rural and remote Australia.

This year’s auctions raised a total of $16,602.30, reflecting the continued generosity of buyers who understand the importance of healthcare access in regional communities.

John Colley, Chairman of AWN said, “As a regional business, we’re honoured to support the lifesaving services that the RFDS delivers to our communities.”

In Sydney, AWN wool and sheep specialist Cassie Baile offered a two-bale line of 17.9 micron wool with an 83mm staple length, 55 newtons strength, and 75.3% yield. It sold for 1300c/kg greasy, raising $4,589.

“We are very grateful for the strong buyer competition, which helped achieve a favourable result for this lot. A sincere thank you to Endeavour Wool Exports and buyer, Tom Watson, for their continued support of the Flying Doctor’s mission,” Cassie said.

In Melbourne, State Manager, Kelvin Shelley, offered a two-bale line measuring 17.8 micron with 71.9% yield and 37 newtons strength. It sold for 1410c/kg greasy, raising $5,047.80.

“The sale saw strong competition from many bidders, driving excellent results for the RFDS charity. David Freney of Endeavour Wool Exports was a major buyer, planning to export the wool. The RFDS is highly valued by our buyers, shown by bids reaching $3/kg greasy above market price to support the cause,” Kelvin said.

In Western Australia, Wool and Livestock State Manager, Greg Tilbrook, auctioned a donated bale that sold for $2,100 to Meliwa.

“On behalf of myself and the team, I thank the entire Wool Industry for supporting the annual charity bale. AWN has long partnered with RFDS, whose vital work in rural communities benefits many, including our valued clients. This achievement showcases the strength of collaboration and generosity in our industry. Thank you to everyone who helped make this a great success!” Greg said.

Dyson Jones WA Manager, Peter Howie, facilitated the auction of a fully donated bale, which raised $4,865.50.

“The joint charity bale offering was to support the importance of the RFDS, particularly in rural and remote communities. The Dyson Jones bales were fully donated by our leading WA wool marketing business,” Peter said.

“Dedicated to supporting the vital work of the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia, all proceeds from these auctions went directly to the not-for-profit charity, which provides 24/7 lifesaving emergency and primary healthcare to regional, rural, and remote communities.”

Greg Sam, CEO Royal Flying Doctor Service South Eastern Section, said “We sincerely thank AWN for their ongoing and generous contribution to the RFDS. We greatly appreciate the support from the wool industry sector in backing our service to rural and remote communities.”

Michael Ben-Meir, CEO RFDS Victoria, added “Thank you for the fantastic result. RFDS Victoria is grateful for AWN’s continued commitment to our cause. Rest assured, the funds will be put to excellent use helping regional and rural communities access essential health and wellbeing care.”

AWN extends its heartfelt thanks to the RFDS teams for their dedication to supporting the health and resilience of Australia’s agricultural communities. To learn more about the essential services provided by the RFDS or to make a donation, please visit: flyingdoctor.org.au


Follow AWN

Follow AWN on social media for regular updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedInX, or Youtube.

Get in touch with an AWN wool or livestock specialist

Talk to one of our experienced wool or livestock professionals for more information.