Australian
Screen

an NFSA website




The Flying Vet (1984)

Synopsis

David Bradley’s veterinary practice covers from Port Hedland, Western Australia to Mt Isa Queensland and from Darwin to Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. It is the biggest practice in the world. David pilots his own aircraft to attend to his patients. The documentary follows Dr Bradley on his rounds. We meet his wife, Susan, who is active in the community as a justice of the peace, and his children, Richard and Nicho. Bradley provides the voice-over commentary.

Curator’s notes

David Bradley’s articulate and insightful commentary makes this documentary particularly interesting. The pace of the film reflects life in the outback. His wife, Susan, also provides part of the commentary. The film gives a real sense of what it’s like to live in remote Australia.