RICK Carey believes problems for remote Indigenous communities are out of sight and out of mind for most Australians, but after an eye opening experience last year, he is determined to make a difference.
The Bibbenluke resident and 65 year-old former combat medic embarked on an epic 25,000km motorcycle ride through Australia's top end last year to raise funds for soldiers suffering from PTSD.
But after witnessing first-hand the shocking health problems facing Indigenous communities, he will return to the Kimberleys with a motorcycle equipped with first aid and medical supplies on August 1.
Rick said he was shocked and saddened to witness what he described as 1700s living conditions during last year's ride - during which he raised $10,000.
Throughout the course of his travel he saw first Australians with a number of shocking medical conditions - many of which are unheard of in more populous parts of modern day Australia.
"It broke my heart. I left the north of Australia trying to get images of what I saw out of my head. I was riding along on my motorcycle and crying," he said.
"I served in Sudan and what I saw up north was on par, if not worse."
He said during his trip he was humbled by the level of kindness and hospitality that were shown to him by members of remote communities.
"On a couple of occasions, I told them I was hungry. They had nothing, but they went and made me food," he said.
"It may work, it may not, but I have to give it a try."
Rick said while the government was building new roads and opening up ports for fracking and other strategic purposes in the north west, he did not believe genuine efforts were being made to help members of the Indigenous community.
His bike - which he dubbed Muriel the Medicycle after a kind local he met during last years trip, has been equipped with high quality first aid kits and some diagnostic equipment.
In addition to providing first aid where possible, he also plans to photograph and document what he sees during this year's trip in a bid to raise awareness among the general public upon his return.
He will also take touch football equipment and balloons which can be used to make balloon animals in a bid to provide recreational outlets for local children.
While his fundraising efforts last year were very successful, Rick has found it a lot more difficult to raise funds this year.
He said he had raised just over $1200 so far, but had spent around $10,000 out of his own pocket.
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