Manly’s Royal Far West, a beloved institution on the Northern Beaches, is celebrating a century of dedication to the health and well-being of rural and remote children.
For 100 years, this iconic organisation has been a lifeline for those living in the bush, providing vital support and services that have shaped countless young lives.
Since its inception on December 6, 1924, Royal Far West (RFW) has provided developmental, mental health, and disability support to over 190,000 children across rural NSW, Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia. Founded initially as the Far West Children’s Health Scheme, RFW continues its mission to bridge the gap in healthcare services for children up to 12 years old.
Bridging the Gap: Overcoming the Tyranny of Distance
One of RFW’s key strengths is its ability to overcome the tyranny of distance. Children who might otherwise face lengthy waits for healthcare professionals in their rural communities can access a comprehensive range of assessment and therapy services. This is achieved through visits to the Centre for Country Kids in Manly or remotely via telehealth services.
A Team of Experts Dedicated to Rural Children
A team of 130 expert clinicians forms the backbone of RFW’s operations. This dedicated group includes paediatricians, psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and other specialists, ensuring that children receive the highest quality care. RFW’s commitment extends beyond the children, encompassing support for parents, carers, schools, and early childhood centres, fostering a holistic approach to child development.
Humble Beginnings on Manly Beach
The story of RFW began with Reverend Stanley Drummond, a Methodist minister from Cobar, who conceived the idea while recuperating on Manly Beach. He envisioned bringing children from remote areas to the coast for respite and holiday camps. With the support of local doctors, teachers, and community leaders, children were selected to experience the rejuvenating benefits of the seaside.
A Turning Point: Holiday Camps to Healthcare
In 1926, a pivotal moment occurred when Dr George Moncrieff Barron offered his medical expertise to the children at one of the camps. This marked the beginning of RFW’s evolution from holiday camps to a provider of essential healthcare services.
Celebrating a Century of Service
RFW’s Chief Executive, Jacqueline Emery, commemorated the centenary with staff, volunteers, and supporters at a special ceremony on Manly Beach. She acknowledged the organisation’s enduring role in supporting country children and emphasised its commitment to reaching those in need and providing access to high-quality healthcare, regardless of location.
She highlighted RFW’s transformation into a specialist child development service, employing innovative methods and technology to bridge the geographical divide and deliver vital health services to remote areas.
Recognition for a Remarkable Achievement
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park also paid tribute to RFW’s century of service to rural communities. He commended their unwavering dedication and the profound impact they have had on the lives of countless children and families.
Milestones in a Century of Care
Taking to the Skies: Enlisting the services of renowned aviator Nancy Bird Walton in 1935. Known as the ‘Angel of the Outback’, she flew RFW’s clinic sisters to remote outstations, extending their reach and impact.
Combating Polio: Establishing a polio hospital in Manly in 1945, responding to a critical health need.
Pioneering Telehealth: Pioneering a telehealth service in 2013, bringing speech therapy, occupational therapy, and psychology services directly to children’s homes and schools in the bush.
Providing Safe Haven: Transforming Drummond House, originally a guesthouse for visiting children and families, into a haven for women and children escaping domestic violence.
Disaster Relief: We collaborated with UNICEF Australia to establish the Community Recovery Service, which supports children, families, and communities affected by major natural disasters, such as the devastating “Black Summer” bushfires.
A Legacy of Care for Future Generations
As Royal Far West embarks on its next century, its legacy of care and commitment to country children remains as strong as ever. This Manly-based institution continues to be a vital source of support, ensuring that all children, regardless of where they live, have the opportunity to thrive.
Published Date 05-December-2024
Photo Credit: Royal Far West/ Facebook
