The family on the hill

It’s a family affair in the far-east Gippsland community of Gelantipy, with three generations of the Hill family having used Flying Doctor services.

Lynton Hill and his family live amongst the rolling hills of Gelantipy, in East Gippsland. The nearest major centre of Bairnsdale is a three-hour return drive, making it difficult for them to access health care services – especially while managing work and family commitments too.

Regular visits by the Flying Doctor eye care team means that Lynton’s family can receive expert eye care locally. Our Mobile Eye Care service, delivered in partnership with the Australian College of Optometry, provides a visiting optometrist in selected towns within the regions of the Mallee, West Wimmera and East Gippsland.

For Lynton, who has had issues with his eyes in the past, our mobile eye clinic means that he can stay on top of his eye health close to home. Lynton’s parents-in-law, Judi and Paul, also value having such an important health service nearby. In fact, Judi discovered she had the early signs of cataracts at our mobile eye clinic, enabling her to manage the condition before it became more serious. It’s no wonder she is full of praise for the service.

“I think it’s amazing for people in isolated areas,” she says.

“It’s a much-needed service. A lot of people are very thankful for the Flying Doctor for coming to Gelantipy.”

Lynton echoes this sentiment, saying, “By having these great services come to town, we can check in and maintain good health. And that’s really important when you have little kids.”

The family have also benefitted from the RFDS’ mobile dental service, which travels throughout the state providing dental care to Victorians.

For Lynton, one of the best parts about having access to Flying Doctor services close to home is the peace of mind they give him as a father – something that can be so easily taken for granted when you live in a city.

“It’s really nice to be able to take the kids up there and tick a few boxes just to make sure they’re travelling okay,” says Lynton.

_{Please note: the below video was filmed in October 2019.}

“I think it’s amazing for people in isolated areas,” she says. “It’s a much-needed service. A lot of people are very thankful for the Flying Doctor for coming to Gelantipy.”

“I think it’s amazing for people in isolated areas,” she says.

“It’s a much-needed service. A lot of people are very thankful for the Flying Doctor for coming to Gelantipy.”