After 15 days and 3,800km across the outback skies, the Red Planet Software Outback Air Race 2025 concluded with $1,000,000 raised for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). The event’s biggest impact in its history.
Image: Members of the Outback Air Race Committee on presentation night
The Red Planet Software Outback Air Race 2025 lifted off from Yulara, NT on 22 August and, after 15 extraordinary days in the air, touched down in Carnarvon, WA, on 8 September with more than a record to celebrate. The journey spanned 3,800km, crossed 10 outback airstrips, and saw 37 aircraft and their crews navigate across Australia’s Outback skies, all united by one purpose: to keep the Royal Flying Doctor Service flying.
Since its inception in 1996, the race has grown from a niche aviation challenge into a national challenge, raising more than $5 million for the RFDS, with 2025 setting a new benchmark: $1,000,000 in a single event.
A significant part of that success is due to the our sponsors, including Red Planet Software, who stepped up not only as Principal Sponsor but with it’s CEO as part of the crew. CEO Peter Williams didn’t just lend his company’s name; he took the pilot’s seat, proving that innovation and purpose go hand in hand. For Red Planet Software, it was about more than just brand visibility; it was about living the mission, shoulder to shoulder with the aviators, families, and fundraisers who made this year’s record possible.
“Raising $1 million is more than a milestone. It’s a lifeline for people who live, work or travel through outback and rural areas of Australian” said Peter Williams, CEO of Red Planet Software and Captain of Team 36 – The Three Amigos.
Champions of the Skies
This year’s winners, Team ZIC (Scott Palmer & Adam Dean) from Western Australia, claimed top honours with a total score of 14,296. Precision flying that set them apart in a field of passionate aviators.
Image: Team ZIC (Scott Palmer & Adam Dean)
Close behind were Team 10 – The Wacky Warbos (Ian & Connie Warburton) from ACT, finishing as runners-up with a total score of 14,168. The Wacky Warbos are last race’s champions and now beloved members of the Outback Air Race community.
Image: Team ZIC (Scott Palmer & Adam Dean) + Wacky Warbos (Ian & Connie Warburton)
Fundraising Leaders.
While the skies were closely contested, the fundraising battle on the ground was just as fierce.
Team Tait Auto Group (Goondiwindi, QLD) soared to the top of the leaderboard, raising an astounding $141,037.
Image: Red and Taity, from Tait Auto Group
Team Comanche Flyers (Emerald, QLD) followed with an impressive $74,330, proving that determination on the ground can be just as vital as precision in the skies.
image: Comanche Flyers
More Than a Race
At its heart, the Outback Air Race is about people.
From families flying in tribute, to seasoned champions defending their titles, to first-timers chasing adventure. These human stories are what transform the race from a competition into a community, bound together by a shared purpose and generosity.
Looking Ahead
With its 12th edition complete, the Red Planet Software Outback Air Race has once again proven the power of aviation to connect, inspire, and give back. The journey may have ended in Carnarvon, but its impact will continue across the remote towns and outback airstrips that rely on the RFDS every day.
“Every aircraft, every crew, and every supporter played a part in this year’s success,” said Stuart Payne, Race Manager. “The Outback Air Race is about more than flying. It’s about connection, generosity, and keeping the spirit of the outback alive for the communities who need it most.”
Follow the journey, access media assets, and support the RFDS at www.outbackairrace.com.au
*Exclusive interviews available upon request. Please reach out to Stuart Payne at manager@outbackairrace.com.au
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