The Chimes

Local St John's Ambulance First Responders (from left): Maxi, Sarah, Tim, Nicole, Jane and Gavin.

One of the appeals to city folk who come to New Norcia is its vast sense of empty space and quiet. Situated in the midst of the Victoria Plains, it’s actually surrounded by small towns and many local farmers. Still, the population density is low and to the people who live up here, it’s remote.

So what happens when an emergency arises? Triple zero won’t get first responders to your location in a matter of minutes like in the city. But thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers from St John Ambulance, people in need of emergency assistance in the region won’t be left stranded.

Two squads of volunteers look after the New Norcia and Calingiri areas, with an ambulance parked in each location. Once a month the teams get together for training, practice and a top take-out meal supplied by Yerecoin Traders. They practice CPR and other emergency first aid on Fabia and Pasca, two life-size mannequins designed especially for the job of play-acting someone in distress.

Local farmer Sarah Mason, along with paramedic Maxi McDonald, head up the crew’s practice sessions, ensuring their skills are kept current and readily accessible for emergency situations. Sarah recently took over the post of Volunteer Development Officer from Jane Graham; both women have been involved with St John’s for quite some time and are passionate about what they do.

The other eight members of the team are spread throughout the region: 3 in New Norcia, 3 near Calingiri, and 3 around Yerecoin. When an emergency call comes through on Sarah’s delegated phone, volunteers in the region closest to the crisis will usually respond. But because there’s no roster or set system, it means whoever’s available jumps on it – with their strong team spirit, the volunteers often help each other out.

Just over three years ago the monthly practice sessions shifted from an old shed in New Norcia – sweaty in the summer, freezing in the winter – to the comfort of a carpeted, air-conditioned room in the Education Centre. Plenty of space to spread out their equipment and practice their moves, plus take some time-out for socialising and tea. “We’re so fortunate that New Norcia has allowed us to use this space,” Sarah said. “It makes our practice sessions not only easier, but more fun. We’re really grateful.”

The team is calling for more volunteers – the ideal number is between 15-20 to spread the load. Call-outs are fairly irregular – some months lots, others few – but each volunteer is virtually on call 24/7 (though not obliged to respond). Any interest in volunteering can be directed to the St John’s Admin Office in Wongan Hills, who also coordinate first aid courses in the region upon request.

“First aid is an important skill for everyone,” said Sarah. “We recommend people update their skills every two years. And when you do – come join us!”