AWN’s 23-Year Commitment to RFDS: Over $295,000 Raised for vital Rural Healthcare

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Representatives from AWN in Sydney, Fremantle and Melbourne, along with Dyson Jones, presenting charity wool bales and donation cheques to the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

For more than two decades, the AWN Group has supported the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) through charity auctions held at selling centres in Sydney, Melbourne, and Fremantle. Since the initiative began 23 years ago, these auctions have raised over $295,000 to help deliver vital healthcare services across rural and remote Australia.

This year’s auctions raised a total of $22,685, reflecting the continued generosity of buyers who understand the importance of healthcare access in regional communities.

Rick Maybury, Managing Director of AWN said, “For more than two decades, AWN has supported the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and we are proud to continue that tradition in 2026 with over $22,000 raised for rural and remote healthcare.”

In Sydney, AWN Wool & Sheep Specialist, Cassie Baile, offered a two-bale line of 17.2 micron had favourable test results for buyers, yielding 73.0 %, with a staple length of 94mm and a very attractive strength result of 45 newtons. PJ Morris Wools were the successful buyer of this lot, purchasing it for 2100c/kg greasy, which raised $7,182.00.

Buyer on behalf of PJ Morris Wools, Andrew Blanch was very proud to be able to show the company’s support for the service provided to rural and remote communities.

In Melbourne, VIC State Manager, Kelvin Shelley, offered a two-bale line measuring 16 micron with 71.1% yield and 33 newtons strength. It sold for 2200c/kg greasy, raising $7,062.00.

“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 on using the wool in one of their numerous orders throughout the retail sector. The RFDS is highly valued by our buyers, shown by bids reaching $2-3/kg greasy above market price to support the cause,” Kelvin said.

In Western Australia, Wool Specialist Stephen Squire, auctioned a donated bale that sold for $2,722.00 sold to Darren Calder from PJ Morris Wools.

“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!”

Dyson Jones WA Manager, Peter Howie, facilitated the auction of a fully donated bale, which raised $5,719.00.

“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 “Our sincere thanks to you and AWN for such a wonderful ongoing contribution to the RFDS.  We greatly appreciate your support.”

Michael Ben-Meir, CEO RFDS Victoria, added “Thank you so much to AWN for continuing to choose us as a charity partner. The communities we serve will be grateful as well.”

RFDS WA Team added “On behalf of the entire team at RFDS WA, we sincerely thank you and the entire team for your help to facilitate this!”

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


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