Around four years ago, Ange happened to come across an interesting advertisement in her local paper, promoting the work of Ambulance Community Officers.

This resonated with her deeply and after researching the role further, Ange completed an intensive twelve month practical training program, including ninety-six hours of online study to qualify.

The Mirboo North branch employs one qualified paramedic during day shifts, accompanied by an ACO, preferably local to the area. Evening and night shifts are covered by two ACOs.

Morning shifts usually commence with a truck check, ensuring the ambulance is stocked and ready to spring into action. Of course, during this unforeseen pandemic, all the appropriate and necessary protective clothing is worn by the team on every call out without fail.

Ange states, “We can then generally sit in the branch for hours awaiting calls and often, typically we are paged ten minutes before we knock-off!”

Ange thoroughly enjoys her position as an Ambulance Community Officer, however doesn’t deny the initial apprehension she feels when her pager sounds, not knowing what to expect.

Scenarios are often serious, such as cardiac arrests, road vehicle or farm accidents. Ange admits, “It’s difficult to prepare for the unknown.”

There have been a number of tragic outcomes over the years, however positive results dominate, and Ange is happy and relieved to bump into known patients looking fit and healthy, gifting her a feeling of accomplishment.

She recognises her participation in primary care is part of their success story, confirming her role as extremely satisfying and worthwhile. In fact, Ange received the ACO of the year award in 2018 for services to the community.

The Mirboo North paramedic team also often attends local South Gippsland events and is stationed in Mount Baw Baw for two days each winter, prepared to provide medical attention as needed.

Ange enjoys these stints, which add diversity to her prominent, meaningful role.

I asked Ange how much emotional support is available to ACOs, especially after attending traumatic experiences or accidents. I imagine shifts can be daunting and hair-raising at the best of times, while the after effects perhaps continue to hauntingly linger in mind.

I was assured, there are many available support groups for ACOs, however Ange feels most comfortable regularly discussing and debriefing with her familiar, supportive colleagues.

Besides this lovely lady working as an Ambulance Community Officer, Ange is married and a mum to a beautiful, beloved fur baby. She also cares for her ninety year old mother, looks after her three, gorgeous, great nephews and until recently, managed one of the local football club’s busy canteens.

Ange claims, “There are still a few spare hours among my week, who knows what I will venture into next!”

Well done, Ange. I find you courageous and inspiring and one of the most endearing and competent women I know.