BRUCE Smalley and Merilyn Evans are outback adventurers.
Bruce describes their travels as “extensive”.
“Cape York, the Northern Territory, the Kimberleys in WA, Victoria and parts of SA, outback NSW and the Simpson Desert.”
But their next adventure is more than a chance to make some memories for themselves, it is a chance to help save lives.
On Friday 1 August, Bruce and Merilyn will set out on the Drover’s Run, a nine day drive that covers more than 3000km throughout western NSW and the channel country of South-West Queensland.
The annual event is a fundraising initiative for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, and is celebrating its 10th run in 2025.
When Bruce speaks of the work of the Westpac Helicopter, he is quick to point out the impressive track record since the partnership began in 1973.
“They have over 300 professionals employed and they have flown 100,000 missions since their inception.”
It would be difficult to place a figure on just how many lives have been saved by their work, but the service has expenses.
“A chopper costs $7000 per hour and they average 6000 hours per year.”
The Drover’s Run was established in 2015 to help spread awareness about the work of the Westpac Rescue team in regional areas, and raise much needed support.
The name recalls Australian pioneers who navigated remote, rugged terrain, on the roads to rural communities.
It conjures the image of resilience, resourcefulness and a commitment to the wellbeing of those in their care.
These are the same qualities embodied by the team members of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
Commencing the run with an inaugural dinner, teams will set out from Armatree, travelling north to Mt Oxley, through Bourke to Charlotte Plains, then into Queensland through Cunnamulla, Eulo and Toompine for a rest in Eromanga.
From there they will head east to Goodwood Station, then on through Tilpa, Louth and Gundabooka National Park before another break at Byrock.
The final leg will take them through Carinda, Coonamble and Coonabarabran and finally to the home base in Tamworth.
Along the way the convoy will hold auction nights to further raise some funds to contribute to the grand total, which has so far reached more than $92,000.
The Port Stephens couple are joining 22 other teams who have been working hard to raise funds.
“Merilyn is a retired nurse, and I’m a retired police officer, and we both know and appreciate the work and effort that goes into a rescue mission and the care that is given to the rescued,” Bruce said.
“That’s probably the main reason that we are very happy to support the service in this way.
“Plus we are able to get back in the bush.”
By Lindsay HALL
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
