9th August 2010

MEDIA RELEASE

2010 Paramedic of the Year Awards
And the Winner is…

Congratulations to Samantha King on being awarded NT Paramedic of the Year for 2010!

The Northern Territory 2010 Paramedic of the Year Awards were presented by the Minister for Health, Hon Kon Vatskalis MLA, at Parliament House on Monday 9 August 2010 at 5.30pm.

A total of 26 nominations for 20 nominees were received from the community by individuals who have been directly treated by Paramedics, from those who have witnessed and been comforted by the work of a Paramedic and from staff who have nominated their peers. The awards herald the outstanding performance of Paramedic Officers working in Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, Katherine. Nhulunbuy and Darwin and acknowledge the professional conduct of Paramedics who often perform their role under extreme and difficult circumstances.

Originally from South Australia, Samantha King moved to the Northern Territory as part of her 8 year career with the Australian Army. Her role as Transport Officer saw Sam confidently respond to challenges both here in Australia and as part of two overseas deployments to East Timor. Sam’s easy going and approachable nature was an asset to other roles she has undertaken in recent years, including as Cabin Attendant with Airnorth and as Assistant Promotions Manager at Palmerston Sports Club. Her desire to pursue a new and inspiring career, lead her to commence her St John Ambulance Australia (NT) Inc Paramedic Traineeship in 2007. Sam was awarded her Diploma of Paramedical Science in 2010 when she also achieved “Student of the Year” award for her application as a student.

Mrs Doris Mullet of Sandringham, Victoria nominated Sam in this year’s Paramedic of the Year Award after receiving medical treatment from Sam and her colleague Chris Davies. Doris was on holiday, travelling on the Ghan when she fell ill and required immediate treatment upon arrival in Darwin. In her nomination, Doris described Sam as being “just great, so patient, helpful and caring. The attention I received was very comforting.” There is no doubt that Sam’s professionalism, rapport, compassion towards her patients has earned her this recognition of her peers and the Territory community as 2010 Paramedic of the Year.

Now in its 11th year, the Paramedic of the Year Awards was established by the Rotary Club of Darwin Sunrise to recognise officers who demonstrate the highest standards in professionalism and compassion. St John Ambulance Paramedics rarely seek attention or accolades for the assistance they provide. The Awards provide an opportunity for people who have had first hand experience with the professional service provided by Paramedics to give feedback, and ensure that officers are continually encouraged and rewarded for their outstanding efforts.

St John Ambulance and the Rotary Club of Darwin Sunrise would like to congratulate all nominees, thank all community members who submitted their nominations and also thank the sponsors of the Awards – Northern Territory Government, Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union, JR Telecommunications & Cabling, Fire Protection Professionals, Darwin Airport Resort, Territory Surgical Supplies, Country Classics and Zip Print.