Community
15 August, 2025
Lacing up for Flying Doctors
A FOURTEEN-YEAR-OLD Camperdown boy will be lacing up his sneakers in October to raise funds for a special cause.
Landon Ross will be participating in the virtual Oceans to Outback event later in the year, which raises funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS).
The RFDS provides access to emergency and primary health care to regional, rural and remote areas of Australia, flying 112,839 people each year for medical treatment.
Landon said he has committed to walk 87 kilometres in October, which is one kilometre for every Flying Doctor aircraft in Australia.
“I just want to help people,” he said.
“The RFDS do a great service to the outback.
“They’re helping people in the outback, so I want to help to keep them flying.
“We’ve set up a donation link which we’ll share with family and friends – my school will also share the link.”
“At the time of publication, Landon has already raised $104 for the RFDS.
Nicole Ross, Landon’s mother, said she was proud of her son for stepping up to the challenge.
“Landon likes to help people all the time and this is something practical and achievable that we think he can do to make a bit of a difference,” she said.
“As a parent you try your best to nurture, guide and support your children so that they will become confident, capable people.
“Ultimately the hope is that they will contribute positively to society.
“Landon has only just turned 14 years old and much like any teenager, he has his fair share of challenges.
“He identified this opportunity to provide support to a not-for-profit organisation that he has long been in awe of.”
Ms Ross said she was happy to support Landon, encouraging the community to show their support in whatever way they can.
“If you can spare a few dollars to contribute that would be wonderful – however, we realise that not everyone can afford to help support all of these worthwhile causes financially,” she said.
“Look out for Landon in October when he embarks on this challenge.
“If you see him, toot your horn or wave to him to show your support for what he is trying to achieve.
“Landon has a big heart and it’s hard not to get emotional witnessing him making good choices.
“He could very easily spend his time at home shooting hoops or playing games on his iPad but instead, for one whole month, he will sacrifice doing things he enjoys for himself in order to make time to help make a difference for others in need.”
To donate to Landon’s walk, visit https://www.oceanstooutback.org.au/fundraisers/landonross.
Read More: Camperdown