Hancock Agriculture Partners with RFDS Queensland for Lifesaving Support

Hancock Ag’s Adam Giles presents a cheque for $750,000 to RFDS Queensland representatives.

In a significant show of support for rural and regional communities, Hancock Agriculture has announced a three-year partnership worth $750,000 with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Queensland Section. This commitment underscores Hancock Ag’s dedication to providing critical medical services in Australia’s remote areas.

The financial pledge, structured as an annual donation of $250,000, will sponsor one of RFDS’s Queensland-based aircraft, ensuring it remains operational and ready to address medical emergencies in outback regions. The operational costs for such a fleet include aviation fuel, ongoing maintenance, and specialized medical outfitting, highlighting the need for sustainable funding.

Adam Giles, CEO of Hancock Ag, made the announcement on behalf of executive chairman Gina Rinehart, who has a long history of philanthropic support for the RFDS. Rinehart’s contributions have been pivotal in saving lives across remote Australia.

“It is a privilege to be here today representing Mrs. Rinehart and continuing this vital partnership,” said Mr. Giles. “Having grown up in what was once very remote North West Australia, Mrs. Rinehart understands the isolation of outback life and the critical need for accessible medical care, especially for those living hundreds of kilometers from the nearest hospital.”

Mr. Giles emphasized that the annual commitment of $250,000 complements the millions of dollars Rinehart and her companies have previously donated, ensuring that the RFDS can continue to operate effectively in serving outback communities.

This sponsorship guarantees that a key aircraft in the RFDS Queensland fleet will have the financial backing necessary for its continued life-saving flights. It is part of a broader legacy that dates back to Hope Hancock, Gina Rinehart’s mother, who hosted annual fundraising events for the RFDS for many years.

Mrs. Rinehart remarked on the RFDS’s essential role for those living in bush areas and for city dwellers who visit. She fondly recalled her mother’s fundraising lunches in Perth’s Dalkeith home, where personal stories—both joyful and sorrowful—were shared, underscoring the indispensable service provided by RFDS.

“They understood how crucial the Royal Flying Doctor Service is for lives in the bush,” said Mrs. Hancock. “Today we reaffirm that commitment, ensuring fly doctors remain available to those in need.”