Two Territory-trained paramedics who met as university students are now working side by side on road in Darwin, highlighting the value of growing and retaining locally trained talent in the Northern Territory.
As Australia marks National Best Friends Day on Monday 8 June, paramedics Ella McNeill and Ava Perrottina’s story of friendship showcases the value of local pathways and building a workforce that is ready for the unique demands of working in the NT.
St John NT CEO Abi Trewin emphasised the value of locally trained paramedics, and how it benefits Territorians.
“There is enormous value in developing paramedics who have trained, lived and gained experience in the Northern Territory because they have a deeper understanding of the communities they serve from day one,” said Ms Trewin.
For paramedics Ella and Ava, theirs is a journey that’s come full circle, meeting as CDU students, doing their internship together, and now working alongside each other.
“Working together was always the dream,” Ella said.
“Often we know what the other person is thinking before they’ve even said it, which makes things more efficient when we’re out on road."
From urban callouts to getting to work in more remote communities like Nhulunbuy and Tennant Creek, the breadth of experience remains a major draw for the growing number of paramedics choosing the Northern Territory.
“Clinically, the variety of cases in the Territory is unmatched,” Ella said.
“There’s constant exposure to a every kind of call out, which means every day on the job is different.”
“People sometimes ask why we chose to stay in the Territory after graduating, but for us it was an easy decision,” Ava said.
“The clinical opportunities, the variety of work and the chance to work together across urban, regional and remote communities meant it was a perfect place to continue our careers.”
Ms Trewin said the Territory’s strong sense of community was also helping attract and retain paramedics.
“Whether you're a student considering a future career or a qualified paramedic looking for a new challenge, the Territory offers exceptional clinical opportunities, a unique lifestyle and the chance to become part of a close-knit team,” she said.
Qualified paramedics from across Australia are encouraged to join the growing number of paramedics choosing the Territory for its broad clinical scope, diverse patient presentations and strong sense of community.
More information about current opportunities can be found at www.stjohnnt.org.au/ambulance-careers
