Paramedic excellence, service and leadership celebrated

The incredible dedication, service and achievements of Ambulance Victoria’s paramedics in the east and southeast of Melbourne were on show Monday night, in an evening of commemoration and celebration.

Staff recognition award events are held in Ambulance Victoria regions across the state each year, with the Metro 2 region awards hosted in Doncaster this week.

Windsor branch was named the region’s Team of the Year, with paramedics recognised for their exceptional patient care, community engagement, and the creation of an inclusive, high-performing team environment.

Acting Senior Team Manager Alex Hemsley said the Windsor crew were “a genuinely amazing bunch”.

“This award really recognises the positive impact they strive for each and every day, for their patients and each other,” Alex said.

“This team have a fantastic culture, they support each other to deliver high-quality patient care, maintain consistency and adaptability in their teamwork.

“They look after each other and when you walk through the door it’s evident people genuinely want to be there. They deserve it, they’re a great team.”

Clinical Support Officer (CSO) and MICA paramedic Cam Asker, based in the Mornington Peninsula, was acknowledged with the Regional Director Award for his consistent leadership presence, focus on delivering the highest standard of care, and commitment to mentoring and developing others.

Cam said he was “rapt” that a CSO has been recognised.

“I am very humbled. I love my job, I love helping develop other people to achieve their goals, whether it be better in their work, learning new skills, or just being there to debrief,” Cam said.

“I’m passionate about making sure all of our staff deliver care that is as good as it can be.

“You are a bit of chameleon in this role. There are a lot of people that do their job exceptionally well. I’m one of many amazing CSOs.”

Beaconsfield Paramedic Educator Chloe-Eloise Verhees was awarded the Clinical Excellence and Leadership Award for her exceptional clinical expertise, leadership and unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding patient-centred care. This is the second time Chloe-Eloise has won the award.

Dandenong Team Manager Jamie Joseph was recognised for the Health and Safety Award for his advocacy and efforts to strengthen a positive safety culture, taking initiative with a lasting impact across the region.

The event also formally welcomed graduate paramedics to the region, and recognised service milestones of paramedics ranging from 20 to 40 years, including paramedic Stephen MacKenzie, who received a Long Service Award for his incredible 40-years of service.

Ambulance Victoria Director Regional Operations Matt McCrohan congratulated all the award recipients.

“The staff recognition awards demonstrate that excellence comes in many forms: leadership, teamwork, innovation, compassion and service,” Matt said.

“Our winners and nominees remind us of the extraordinary impact one person, or one team, can have on their colleagues, patients and communities.

“Congratulations and thank you all our nominees, and everyone who continues to make an outstanding difference in support of Ambulance Victoria and the communities we serve.”