Military Couple Flies 1972 Piper for Outback Charity Race

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AAustralian Army Major Matthew Hume and Royal Australian Air Force Squadron Leader Stephanie Hume will pilot a 1972 Piper Cruiser in the Red Planet Software Outback Air Race 2025 to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

From August 22 to September 8, 2025, Major Matthew Hume and Squadron Leader Stephanie Hume will take to the skies as Team 19: Atmospherics, competing in the Red Planet Software Outback Air Race. The aviation time trial, which spans from Yulara in the Northern Territory to Carnarvon in Western Australia, aims to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS)—a vital healthcare provider for remote Australian communities. The Humes, both experienced military engineers, are combining their professional expertise and shared passion for aviation to support rural medical services.

Squadron Leader Stephanie Hume, a qualified flight test engineer at the Directorate of Personnel – Air Force, underscored the importance of the RFDS, stating that many isolated communities rely entirely on its services for life-saving care. Major Matthew Hume, an electrical engineer, will serve as the mission’s navigator, assisting in the technical and logistical aspects of their 3,000-kilometre route across the Australian outback.

The Outback Air Race is held every two years and draws aviation enthusiasts from across the country to support the RFDS through entry fees and donations. Team 19 is actively fundraising, offering the public an opportunity to contribute or purchase $20 raffle tickets for a chance to win a $20,000 travel prize, sponsored by the Classic Safari Company.

Their aircraft—a 1972 Piper Cruiser—symbolizes a blend of aviation heritage and technical precision. The Humes’ participation not only highlights the Australian Defence Force’s engagement with the community but also showcases their personal commitment to national service and public wellbeing.

As they prepare for the journey, the Humes aim to raise both awareness and vital funds for the RFDS. Their involvement bridges military dedication with community support and highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in sustaining essential services across remote Australia.