A simulated helicopter crash put St John NT's newest paramedics to the test in Darwin today, as the ambulance service welcomed experienced clinicians from across Australia and overseas to its frontline workforce.
The mass casualty incident (MCI) simulation formed part of the induction program for four newly recruited paramedics, who bring a diverse range of clinical experience from England, New Zealand, Queensland and CareFlight.
The exercise simulated a sightseeing helicopter crash in Coconut Grove, with four passengers requiring emergency medical care.
Working as two ambulance crews, the recruits were tasked with managing the incident from arrival, assessing scene safety, triaging casualties and establishing a central location for patient treatment and transport.
The scenario tested their ability to prioritise patients and deliver critical care with limited resources, including managing traumatic injuries, performing emergency chest decompression and stabilising fractured limbs.
The exercise also involved St John NT’s Wellbeing team, who supported the simulation and facilitated a post-incident debrief, reinforcing the importance of staff wellbeing and psychological support following complex emergency responses.
The simulation formed part of the recruits’ final day of formal induction, providing an opportunity to demonstrate their clinical skills and decision-making while preparing for the challenges of delivering emergency care across the Territory.
Among the recruits was Paramedic and newly appointed Clinical Services Manager Dean Blackney, who joins St John NT following a career in aeromedical retrieval with CareFlight.
He joins three other experienced paramedics who have made the move to St John NT from interstate and overseas, bringing a range of clinical backgrounds and specialist skills, including:
- Katie Boardman, from England
- Jackie Ramm, from Wellington Free Ambulance in New Zealand
- Stevie Barham, from Queensland
Mr Blackney said the simulation was a fitting way to round out his induction.
“Having worked in aeromedical retrieval, helicopters are a pretty familiar environment for me, but working on board one is a bit different to what we did today,” Mr Blackney said.
“From what I’ve seen throughout induction, and having worked closely with some of the team in my previous role, there are outstanding clinicians at St John NT.
“I’m really looking forward to getting out on road alongside them, bringing my experience to the team and supporting Territory paramedics in my new Clinical Services role.”
Following the simulation, the recruits will complete observer shifts to familiarise themselves with St John NT procedures, before finalising their Authority to Practice with St John NT and commencing operational duties across the Territory.
St John NT Director Ambulance Services Sam Kellick said welcoming experienced clinicians from across Australia and overseas was particularly encouraging in an increasingly competitive recruitment market.
“There is strong competition for skilled clinicians, particularly those with specialist experience, so attracting people of this calibre to our service and the Northern Territory is a significant achievement,” Mr Kellick said.
“This intake reflects the work we’re doing to strengthen our clinical capability, create greater opportunities for professional development and career progression within St John NT, and improve the services we deliver to Territorians.
“Their experience will also benefit our existing workforce, creating opportunities to share knowledge, develop clinical skills and support the next generation of Territory paramedics.”
To explore career opportunities with St John NT’s ambulance service, visit www.stjohnnt.org.au/join-our-team
