The Royal Flying Doctor Service will see its time end in June after the tender for patient transport was moved to another contractor.

RFDS Victoria communications and marketing manager Robert Hilkes spoke to The Courier about the decision.

“RFDS will regrettably cease its patient transport services from its Ballarat base after six years of service,” he said.

From 30 June St John Ambulance Victoria will take over the service. 

Those currently employed with RFDS Ballarat are facing uncertain futures.

“There will be a number of staff affected by the change of provider and we are working with our employees to determine who may wish to transfer to an alternative RFDS location,” he said.

“We will be working with the new contractor to assist with recruiting any of our staff who may wish to transition.”

Emma Klinakis, marketing and community manager for St John Ambulance Victoria said a transition plan was in place in Ballarat.

An AV spokesperson said St John’s was selected following a thorough and robust competitive tender process open to new and existing non-emergency transport service providers.

“All providers were assessed through the tender against a range of criteria to ensure a high quality, high-value patient transport service for Victorians ensuring value for taxpayers’ dollars and providing benefits to Victoria in service quality and coverage,” said Mark Rogers, Chief Operating Officer, Ambulance Victoria.