Dusty (centre) with NSW Fire and Rescue’s Mitch (left) and Chris (right).
12-year-old Dusty Langby is the name on many resident’s lips after successfully completing his ‘Dollar for Dusty’ challenge to walk from Warren, NSW to Parliament House in Canberra.
The 540-kilometre challenge was created by the 12-year-old, who lives on a rural property with his family.
All funds raised from the walk will go towards Little Wings, a not-for-profit organisation that provides flights and ground transport services for ill children in rural and regional areas to access specialised medical services.
“[I’m helping] raise a voice for country kids,” says Dusty.
“I hope every child in regional Australia gets access to healthcare.
“Waiting times to see a paediatrician can be up to 18 months to six years. Little Wings provides a free service [and flies] doctors from cities to small regional towns.
“It works! I’ve seen the benefits in my own town.
“Even if my feet hurt, even if I fight with my own mum… I’ll keep it in my head that I’m doing it for all of the kids. I’m doing this for everyone and I’m going to do it no matter what.”
Well… did it he did!
After leaving home on August 30, Dusty has successfully walked to Parliament House, speaking with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on behalf of children and families living in regional Australia.
When Dusty settled on fundraising goal, his mother, Sarah, says there was no hesitation.
“One million!” he said.
For what might’ve been an ambitious goal to many, the 12-year-old’s infectious spark for life has seen an incredible goal turned reality, with $550,058 raised from all across Australia.
When Dusty met the Prime Minister, two weeks after leaving home on a walk that would inevitably change his life, and the lives of those who benefit from Little Wings, he received even better news.
“We’re matching Dusty’s fundraising dollar for dollar and backing Little Wings so they can keep flying and supporting regional families,” said Mr Albanese.
“Making sure no matter where they live, every Australian can get the healthcare they need.”
Dusty will now be presenting more than one million dollars to the Little Wings organisation, smashing his goal.
Dusty’s walk has taken him from Warren to Trangie, Naroomine, Tomingley, Alectown, Parkes, Eugowra, Goolongong, Cowra, Morongla Creek, Boorowa, Yass, Murrumbateman and Canberra, and it’s safe to say the community showed up in droves to supper the young superstar.
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke, met Dusty and his team at Boorowa Central School, where students and the community alike cheered him on as he took off for Yass.
“What Dusty is doing is extraordinary,” Ms Cooke said.
“At just 12 years of age, he has shown a level of courage and compassion that most adults would find difficult to match.
“Being there to see the excitement on the faces of students at Boorowa Central School was incredibly special.
“Dusty’s visit was proof to them that one person can make a real difference, no matter their age, and that is a powerful lesson for our young people.”
Mr Albanese praised Dusty’s grit and determination and called him an inspiration to many.
The Boorowa community showed up in full force when Dusty arrived, including Mitch and Chris from Fire and Rescue Boorowa 232.
“We [welcomed] Dusty,” said Mitch.
“People should take a leaf out of his book. 12-years-old and walking 541 kilometres for Little Wings.
“Proud, on behalf of myself, is an understatement. I don’t really know the young fella, but what he’s doing for Little Wings? Unbelievable. We’re proud to have you here in Boorowa.”
Chris echoed the sentiment and said Dusty’s efforts were a “massive achievement”.
Dusty can now enjoy a good rest with the knowledge that he has started an important conversation nation-wide for access to paediatricians in rural and regional areas.
Elizabeth Kovacs
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