Tucked away in the mulga trees of outback Queensland, a plane hanger that has existed since World War II roars to life as its doors roll open and a twin turbo-prop plan is dragged towards the runway.
"[On a recent shift] we're landing at a dirt strip that none of us have seen before, scoop this fellow out of the dirt, throw him on the plane and take him to Brisbane, then fly home that evening.Many pilots found themselves out of work, furloughed or contemplating a career change after COVID-19 decimated the travel industry.
"It can be a little tricky getting people who have a life established in a major city to move out bush," Mr Johnstone said.Mr Johnstone flies wherever the RFDS is needed across south-west Queensland and to Brisbane. Mr Shorten has shown his appreciation for the service by fundraising, keeping the airstrip in working condition and helping organise and coordinate clinics.