Award breathes life into paramedic’s career

DANDENONG North paramedic John Coetzer has dedicated more than three decades of his life to the job.
He received 35 year Long Service and Safe Driving awards to recognise his efforts at the Ambulance Victoria Staff Service Awards earlier this month.
Mr Coetzer started his career in 1979 as a paramedic in Moorabbin, later moving to the complex area of ambulance service communications and rosters.
“This award is recognition of surviving 35 years in one career path, let alone one organisation,” he said.
“My proudest moments would be a successful resuscitation of a cardiac arrest patient.”
He said he’d made wonderful friends during his time with the service.
Ambulance Victoria CEO Greg Sassella presented the awards to several recipients in front of their colleagues and families at special ceremonies.
“Every day we help people throughout Victoria at times of their greatest need, which puts paramedics in a privileged position which carries associated responsibility,” he said.
“By presenting these awards, we are thanking our skilled and professional paramedics and support staff for their commitment to Ambulance Victoria and to the communities we serve.”