NSW Ambulance has welcomed 157 new paramedic interns and 17 trainee emergency medical call takers, after they were officially inducted into the service at a ceremony on Friday.
Following the largest induction held by NSW Ambulance so far this year, these new recruits will start their roles today, further boosting frontline health services across the state.
“Paramedics and control staff are highly trained clinicians and coordinators, bringing advanced medical care to the patient, continually refining clinical skills and expertise,” said NSW Ambulance Chief Executive, Dr Dominic Morgan.
“Paramedicine and control coordination demands precision, critical thinking and clinical excellence. Stay sharp, stay committed and always put patient care first.”
The new recruits joining the service come from a range of backgrounds and experiences, including paramedic intern Jayden McGrady, a former Australian water ski champion and trainee emergency medical call taker Rebekah Kirkman, a much-travelled mum of three.
“After my sporting career in water skiing, I often thought back to the medical support staff I encountered,” said Ms McGrady.
“I am attracted to the variety and career opportunities of paramedicine,” she said.
“I am excited to be joining NSW Ambulance, I thrive on being busy so a busy control room will be a great start,” said Ms Kirkman.
“I am very excited with where I am at, and I am looking forward to seeing where my career takes me.”
The paramedic interns will be posted across NSW to complete the on-road portion of their 12-month internships, before taking permanent positions in metropolitan and regional areas.
The emergency medical call takers will be posted to the Sydney and Northern (Newcastle) control centres.
“I congratulate these paramedics and control staff, for their dedication, compassion and desire to make a difference in their communities,” said Health Minister, Ryan Park.
“Every call the new paramedic interns and emergency medical call takers respond to is an opportunity to make a difference and help those in our community in their most vulnerable moments.
“NSW will benefit from the clinical skills and expertise these new recruits bring to the healthcare workforce,” the Minister said.
