An impressive fundraising effort inspired by personal experiences has seen Bohdi Wochnik crowned the RFDS Local Hero Award winner for Bundaberg.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) announced nine regional Local Hero Award winners for 2021, each representing one of its base locations.
The annual Local Hero Awards recognises Queenslanders who have donated their time and energy to give back to keep the Flying Doctor in the air.
Inspired when three of his family members required RFDS transfers, Bohdi has raised more than $25,000 for the Flying Doctor in almost 10 years of fundraising.
Bohdi’s younger sister was retrieved by the RFDS after she was bitten by a king brown snake, his grandad was transferred after he lost a finger, and his uncle was also flown by the service following a helicopter accident.
His fundraising efforts have amassed from dam boat races that he has staged over the years at his property.
“I am always thankful for what the Royal Flying Doctors Service do,” Bohdi said.
“That's why I always hold this event to make sure I am doing my little part to help.”
Now that 20-year-old Bohdi is working on a farm near Gin Gin, he intends to pass the organisation of the event to his little sister to continue the incredible work.
RFDS (Queensland Section) Chief Executive Officer Meredith Staib congratulated Bohdi on winning the 2021 RFDS Local Hero Award for Bundaberg.
“While each of our winners has a diverse background, they are united in the fact they have all found a unique way to give back to the RFDS,” Ms Staib said.
“Several have their own personal motivation for fundraising, with the RFDS saving the life of a family member,” she said.
“On behalf of the RFDS, I would like to congratulate all of the winners and the nominees for their tremendous efforts to support our service.
“Without the unwavering dedication from community members, we couldn’t perform the job we do.”
Ergon Energy Retail Executive General Manager Ayesha Razzaq said the business was honoured to recognise these extraordinary Queenslanders.
“This is our sixth year as a proud partner of the awards, and I’m still blown away by the effort, kindness and passion shown by all the nominees,” she said.
“These awards are an opportunity to say a big thank you to Queenslanders who inspire us.
“As a Queensland owned company, we’re proud to have partnered with the RFDS in Queensland for almost 22 years, raising close to $17 million for the charity and helping deliver vital healthcare to regional, rural and remote Queensland.”
Ms Staib invited Queenslanders to now vote for the overall 2021 RFDS Queensland Hero who will receive a $7500 grant, courtesy of Ergon Energy Retail, to promote healthcare in their community.
“Each regional winner’s story is showcased in a video package on the Local Hero website.
“Queenslanders are encouraged to watch these online and then vote for the person or group they believe should be crowned this year’s Queensland winner,” she said.
Bohdi is now in the running to be named 2021 RFDS Queensland Hero. You can vote for the RFDS Queensland Hero here.
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