Paramedics from across the Northern Territory have come together ahead of the Easter long weekend with a simple message delivered via social media for the community: slow down, stay safe, and look after one another on the roads.
With increased travel expected across the Territory, paramedic crews from Alice Springs, Katherine, Nhulunbuy, Tennant Creek and Darwin as well as Triple Zero call takers are urging all road users to take extra care and make safe decisions behind the wheel.
Easter is traditionally one of the busiest and highest-risk periods on NT roads. In 2024, 60 people lost their lives on Northern Territory roads, the highest toll in a decade, with around three quarters of fatalities involving alcohol or drugs.
The Northern Territory also continues to record the highest road fatality rate in Australia at around 14.4 deaths per 100,000 people, more than three times the national average of 4.8.
St John NT paramedics attend hundreds of road incidents each year, often in remote and challenging conditions where distances are vast and help can be hours away.
Matt Cowie, Manager Operations Alice Springs, said the reality of road trauma is something crews see firsthand.
“We attend crashes that change lives in an instant. Many of these incidents are preventable. This Easter, we’re asking everyone to slow down, take breaks and make sure you arrive safely.”
Tony Wood, Area Manager Barkly Region, said planning ahead can make all the difference.
“The Territory is vast and conditions can be unpredictable. Check your vehicle, plan your trip, and don’t take risks. A few extra minutes can save a life.”
Nicole Patching, Area Manager Nhulunbuy, highlighted the unique challenges of remote travel.
"In remote areas, help can be a long way off. By driving to the conditions and preparing for your journey, you’re helping to keep yourself, family and mates safe, easing the demand on emergency services."
Darryl Shaw, St John NT Chaplain, said every Territorian has a role to play in keeping roads safe.
“Easter is a time to be with people who matter most to you, stay safe and give our paramedics the gift of time.”
St John NT Chief Executive Officer Abigail Trewin said the Easter message reflects the shared commitment of paramedics across the Territory.
“Our crews see firsthand the consequences of road trauma, and the impact it has on individuals, families and communities. This Easter, they are united in asking Territorians to take care on the roads and make safe decisions.”
“The statistics are confronting, but they are not inevitable. Many of the incidents we attend are preventable. If everyone plays their part - slows down, avoids risks and looks out for one another - we can help ensure more people arrive safely at their destination.”
St John NT is reminding the community to:
- Avoid speeding and drive to conditions
- Take regular breaks on long trips
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Ensure all passengers are properly restrained
- Check vehicles are roadworthy before travelling
“Our paramedics are proud to serve communities right across the Territory,” Ms Trewin said.
“This Easter, remember to call us if it is a medical emergency. The message from our paramedics is united — take care, stay safe, and look after one another.”
-ENDS-
Extending their message beyond the road, paramedics from across the Territory have recorded short video messages for social media, reinforcing the Easter safety campaign and encouraging Territorians to take care over the long weekend.
Video messages can be downloaded here:
Alice Springs - https://youtu.be/1Pl5O6S1XMw
Darwin - https://youtube.com/shorts/Q8fkNrm2Tvs?
Emergency Communications Centre - https://youtube.com/shorts/e4LFwXwYmXA?
St John NT Chaplain – https://youtube.com/shorts/wugAkXa0rdU?
Nhulunbuy – https://youtu.be/zQAEpbR9VVc
Tennant Creek - https://youtube.com/shorts/-RynM3e_VHo?
