Tuesday, 21 December 2021

"Office" time in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory

Simon has just returned from a stint in Arnhem Land. He spent a month there with a break back home in the middle.  He enjoyed being back in programme again and doing what he loves - flying and being with the people.

Some background information on our Arnhem Land programme taken from our MAF Website.

The Challenge

Arnhem Land is a hot, humid, remote and physically demanding area in the northeast of Australia’s Northern Territory. It is home to around 20,000 indigenous people living in small, widely spread ‘homeland’ communities. During the wet season the main roads become impassable.

Our Operation

MAF operates 10 aircraft to 54 airstrips throughout Arnhem Land, flying indigenous Australians as well as 81 partner organisations.

MAF provides people with transportation to obtain basic supplies, enables access to education through flying both students and teachers, facilitates access to health care services, and provides a lifeline for victims of domestic abuse by flying them to safety.

MAF partners with indigenous Christians, flying in support of the local church throughout the region. This collaboration includes the work of our Technology Services team, which produces Christian resources for use via mobile phones.

Saying goodbye the first time

 

This is what you look like after loading 800kg into the back of a GA8 :)
He was flying mostly in the GA's but had the occasional 208 flight.
Beautiful Arnhem Land.  Unfortunately due to the crocodiles it is not safe to swim in many parts.

Amazing who you meet on your travels - Santa made it to Arnhem Land.  He did opt for sandals rather than his traditional black boots!