RFDS Oceans to Outback challenge returns with cycling goals for fifth year

The Royal Flying Doctor Service’s (RFDS) Oceans to Outback fitness and fundraising challenge will return for its fifth year in October, with organisers encouraging cyclists across Australia to take part by setting their own riding distance while raising funds for essential healthcare services in regional and remote communities.

Registrations for the month-long challenge are now open, with participants able to choose from a range of cycling-specific distance goals inspired by the work of the RFDS.

Cyclists can aim to ride:

• 247km, recognising the RFDS’s 24/7 aeromedical retrieval service.
• 609km, representing the number of patients flown every 48 hours.
• 1,060km, equivalent to the average number of patients the RFDS helps each day.

Participants can also nominate their own distance target and complete it throughout October.

One of the challenge’s longest-serving participants is 16-year-old Port Lincoln runner Clay “Squid” Bertram, who has taken part every year since the inaugural event. Over four years he has raised more than $27,000 for the RFDS after setting himself ambitious fundraising and distance goals.

Growing up in regional South Australia, Bertram said he had seen first-hand how important the Flying Doctor is for communities outside the major cities.

“Growing up in a regional area, you see firsthand how much the community relies on the Flying Doctor. If something serious happens and you need urgent specialist care, that’s in Adelaide – the RFDS is how you get there,” he said.

Bertram’s connection to the organisation is personal. His uncle was airlifted by the RFDS following a medical emergency, while his grandmother later required a flight from Port Lincoln to Adelaide.

Although Bertram completes the challenge by running, organisers say Oceans to Outback is equally suited to cyclists looking for motivation during spring, whether riding recreationally, commuting or training.

Oceans to Outback Fundraising Manager Lauren Lynagh said the event was designed to encourage Australians of all abilities to get active while supporting the RFDS.

“Whether you are a seasoned runner, a cyclist, or someone lacing up for the first time, every kilometre you cover and every dollar you raise helps keep our aircraft flying, our crews equipped, and our communities connected to care,” she said.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service provides healthcare to more than 345,000 Australians each year, including more than 32,000 aeromedical evacuations. The organisation operates 87 aircraft from 23 bases nationwide and supports an average of 900 patient contacts every day.

The 2026 Oceans to Outback challenge runs from 1-31 October, with registrations now open. Participants can complete their chosen distance by walking, running or riding while fundraising for the RFDS.

Register now at oceanstooutback.org.au.