New paramedics will join the ranks at Ambulance Victoria’s Hillside branch, following a graduation ceremony in Sunshine at the weekend.
The graduates have joined AV’s Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedic ranks, having completed the Graduate Ambulance Paramedic (GAP) program.
GAP participants undertake a structured, on-road supervision and learning program for at least 12 months after completing their university degrees, before becoming fully qualified ALS paramedics.
The program helps graduates transition from the classroom to the ‘real world’, integrating into day-to-day team responsibilities and activities, AV said.
The attendees at Sunday’s ceremony brought a diverse range of life experiences and motivations to their career at AV, with the group including new parents, a former retail worker, an ex-teacher and individuals following in the footsteps of family members.
Taryn Daly’s big brother Stuart has been a paramedic in Wodonga for almost 10 years and she said it was special to have him at her graduation.
“He’s 12 years older than me and such a big role model in my life,” Taryn said.
“He’s helped me with studying, with any questions I have and giving me advice.
“It was great finishing my grad year and to be able to tell my brother my results and sharing my achievements with him.”
Taryn said her brother has been one part of a supportive network as she stepped into her new career.
“My partner Brandon has also been very supportive – he always has dinner ready when I get home from work, or when I’m studying he’s always cooking and cleaning,” she said.
Since beginning her paramedicine studies, being able to help a wide range of people has been the highlight for Taryn.
“My favourite thing about being a paramedic is helping people every day,” she said.
“You go into people’s homes when they’re dealing with their toughest moments so it’s a unique role – I find it fulfilling and rewarding.
“I enjoy meeting all different kinds of people every day and talking to patients and their families.
“And I love that I get to come to work and do all that alongside some of my best mates.”
AV chief executive Jane Miller said the graduation was a big achievement for the new paramedics.
“We congratulate all our newest advanced life support paramedics on completing their time as a graduate ambulance paramedic and are thrilled to celebrate this milestone in their careers,” she said.
“It’s fantastic to hear what motivated each of them to become paramedics, and while these reasons vary, we are all linked by a passion to help and care for our community.
“This group have already spent significant time on-road making a positive impact to patients across the state, so they understand what an honour it is to provide best care to all Victorians, and we’re excited to have them join us in delivering that.”
The new paramedics will be based at Tarneit, Point Cook, Dallas, Sydenham, Hillside, Belgrave, Seymour, Clyde North, Inglewood, Morwell and Winchelsea.
