The Very Rev. Dr. J. Fred McKay

1907 - 2000

In 1934, Rev. Dr. Fred McKay, a newly ordained Presbyterian minister was hoping to pursue theological studies abroad ... but a visit from John Flynn changed the course of his life. 

Flynn's vivid descriptions of the Australian Inland Mission's work persuaded Fred to become an itinerant 'Patrol Padre'. His 'parish' from one end of the outback to the other, included Cloncurry, the nerve centre of the recently established Flying Doctor Service.

In 1938, he married Margaret Robertson, whose hard work and dedication made her a much-loved outback figure in her own right.