Paramedic’s mission to empower communities across Bass Coast and South Gippsland

Bass Coast paramedic Lauren O’Dwyer has a drive to help people.

On top of that, she has a strong passion for community. When a back injury temporarily left Lauren unable to perform her role as a paramedic, she found herself working in Ambulance Victoria’s (AV) Community Engagement team, teaching others to save lives through community education.

In this role, Lauren spends her days travelling to different businesses and organisations across Gippsland to teach communities important skills that could help save a life.

Lauren teaches AV’s successful Call, Push, Shock program, which educates communities that anyone can help save a life in three simple steps: Call (call Triple Zero 000), Push (perform CPR), Shock (use an automated external defibrillator (AED)).

She has also delivered presentations on heat health, water safety, choking emergencies, snake bites, recognising heart attack and stroke symptoms, and training for parents and carers of young children.

“I absolutely love doing this work, it’s important for our community to feel empowered to perform lifesaving actions while they wait for paramedic assistance. It saves lives,” Lauren said.

Ambulance Victoria delivers community education sessions at local Probus, Rotary, parents and carers, sporting and multicultural groups across Gippsland.

AV Regional Director for Gippsland Ross Salathiel said AV is committed to helping create healthier, safer and more resilient communities across the state.

“Our community engagement programs aim to build community resilience, improve health literacy and empower Victorians with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their care,” Ross said.

To host an AV community education session at your community group please contact community.engagement@ambulance.vic.gov.au