A WALLAN paramedic was honoured earlier this year, earning International Women’s Day honours from the Council of Ambulance Authorities (CAA).
The awards honours leadership, courage and commitment that women make across the emergency services sector, and are recognised across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.
There were 56 recipients of the award across the three countries this year, with the honourees matching the International Women’s Day theme of Give to Gain.
Six recipients were from Victoria, including Wallan paramedic Kirsten Mitchell, who has served in the sector for 12 years.
Ms Mitchell was listed on the CAA website as someone who delivered excellence in high-pressure situations, a Community Emergency Response Team education champion at Craigieburn and Kinglake, and someone who builds strong partnerships with local organisations and schools.
Her biography states that her impact ‘goes far beyond the ambulance doors’.
“She’s a natural leader and mentor, always ready to guide new team members and share her knowledge. Her ability to connect with people patients, colleagues, and community groups has strengthened trust and improved outcomes across Wallan and beyond,” it reads.
“Kirsten’s drive doesn’t stop there, she has championed innovative programs that reduce response times and improve rural healthcare access, proving that her ideas are as powerful as her actions.”
The Ambulance Victoria website, in profiling Ms Mitchell, was glowing in its assessment. “Kirsten is a paramedic who does it all; from delivering world-class clinical care to mentoring colleagues and building strong community connections, Kirsten leads with heart and vision,” it said.
