This week, Dusty Langby finished a 540km journey from Warren in Central West NSW to Canberra in support of Little Wings, raising much needed funds to help bring more paediatric specialists to regional and remote areas. Elders Warren was delighted to support Dusty on his expedition.
Dusty with his family at Parliament House. L to R: Andrew Langby, Sarah Langby, Angus Langby and Dusty.
The 16-day walk stretched through the middle of regional NSW, averaging over 40 kilometres a day. 12-year-old Dusty walked with his mother Sarah, nurses Christine and Nicole, and Little Wings CEO Clare Pearson. Dusty’s walk finished on Tuesday with a meeting at Parliament House with the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese.
Dusty’s amazing feat resulted in over $550,000 raised for Little Wings, with a matched donation from the Australian Government cracking the $1 million dollar mark. In addition, the Government has committed to two $500,000 grants over the next two years.
This takes the total raised from this initiative over $2 million.
The funds raised will support over 600 missions for Little Wings. The journey for Dusty was a personal one, as Little Wings were there to help Dusty and his brother Angus travel to Sydney for specialist medical support when they were younger.
Dusty with Elders Yass staff. L to R: Dusty, Rob Hennessy, Alex Atkins and Lauren Marchant
Elders Warren was a strong advocate and supporter of the initiative, made extra special as Dusty is the grandson of Elders Warren Branch Manager, Fred Langby.
Fred was extremely proud of Dusty and his daughter in law Sarah’s achievement.
“The plan was hatched over a swim at the family dam in January," Fred said.
"The cause is close to our family as Little Wings had flown Dusty and his brother Angus to Sydney for specialist care as young kids.”
“I’m grateful for the support Elders has given my family, I’d like to thank Ryan Robinson his leadership team for their donation and support, as well as the Elders NSW network, particularly the Parkes, Cowra and Yass branches for being there to support Dusty on his stops in their towns, and our retail suppliers for their contributions to the raffle.
“Lastly, I’d like to reiterate how proud I am of the impact my grandson Dusty has made, he’s highlighted the strength and resilience of rural communities in the bush and I look forward to supporting his future endeavours!”
Dusty shares a moment with his family. L to R; Andrew, Sarah, Dusty and Fred Langby (Branch Manager Warren/Trangie).
It's not too late to donate
If you'd like to donate to Dollars for Dusty and help Little Wings bring paediatricians to rural communities you can! But hurry, donations close 30 September 2026.