ST JOHN NT
NEWSROOM

Having recently earned his gold epaulettes, Luke McLaughlin is a proud local graduate who has risen through the ranks from Cadet to Paramedic, marking a significant milestone in his journey with St John NT.

Born and raised in the Territory, Luke’s journey with St John NT began in 2007 as a Cadet. Advancing through roles as a Volunteer, Emergency Medical Dispatcher and Patient Transport Officer, Luke then enrolled in Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) Bachelor of Paramedicine in 2021.

Completing his studies in 2023 with the first cohort of local graduates, Luke credits the opportunity to study locally as a key advantage that equipped him for his role on-road.

“You are thrown in the deep end, and having local knowledge of the unique health and social challenges plays a big part in helping recruits like me feel connected to the communities we serve and encouraging us to stay long-term in these vital roles,” Luke said.

“I was based in Darwin and had the opportunity to work in Tennant Creek as part of my internship, which was grueling and full on, but I loved it.

“The course’s hands-on, practical teaching, informed by the on-road experiences of local Paramedics, was invaluable in preparing me for the frontline role. The local knowledge from my training has shaped my approach to patient care and ultimately my experience on-road.”

Since partnering with CDU and Flinders University in 2021, St John NT has welcomed 20 locally educated graduates to their internship program, with more set to qualify soon.

St John NT Director Ambulance Services, Andrew Thomas, said that providing locals with these training opportunities will sustain St John NT’s workforce and strengthen its connection with the community.

“The Territory is renowned for its transience, and our ambulance service is not immune. By investing in local talent, we aim to reduce attrition and hope to see improvements in turnover by encouraging locals to live, work, contribute to and stay in their home Territory,” Mr Thomas said.

“The NT is one of the country’s most interesting and diverse locations, giving Paramedics the opportunity to develop skills and experience with complex medical cases, high speed trauma, and delivery of care in extreme and isolated conditions.”