Double the ambos for Deloraine

Deloraine ambos take their jobs seriously, but now that Deloraine shifts are less demanding and tiring, it makes it easier to enjoy their work. From left: Joel Thompson and Craig Broomhall, Deloraine paramedics and lying down on the job, Alistair Shephard, Regional Duty Manager. Photo by Hayley Manning

DOUBLING THE number of paramedics at Deloraine’s ambulance station has made a big difference to paramedics and patients.

Since early this year the station is staffed by four paramedics instead of two, along with a team of unpaid volunteers.

Paramedic Joel Thompson said before 2020 the shifts had been demanding and tiring.

‘We worked a four-day roster, each available for 24 hours.

‘Now we still work a four-on, four-off roster but it’s two 10-hour day shifts and two 14-hour night shifts.’

Most people would still find working those shifts demanding but Joel said paramedics are less fatigued under the new arrangements.

‘It’s working out well, and since the new system began we’ve recruited new volunteers so the shift coverage is even better.

‘The volunteers play an important role because they drive Deloraine’s two ambulances and help carry equipment.’

Volunteers initially train over one weekend then continue
with fortnightly training sessions, Joel said.