This summer, you may have already seen – or you might still see – Ambulance Victoria’s Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) flight paramedics in action during what has been their busiest year on record for cases involving winch operations.
With 74 winch rescues performed in the past year alone, these dedicated paramedics combine advanced medical expertise with the ability to perform under the most extreme and unpredictable conditions.
Their rigorous training, which occurs throughout the year, prepares them to provide best care in Victoria’s most challenging environments.
These comprehensive exercises include annual water and boat rescues to maintain their skills and readiness, along with the highly skilled pilots and aircrew officers (winch operators) they work closely with as part of a tight-knit team.
This essential preparation ensures they are equipped to assist during water-related emergencies, which can occur on the state’s bays, rivers and coastal waters.
The most recent training sessions which were supported by volunteer marine search and rescue organisations, were held in December in Port Phillip Bay and Port Fairy and included winching directly from the water, as well as from vessels.
“It’s about ensuring we’re prepared to respond effectively when the community needs us,” MICA flight paramedic educator, Andrew Allen (who oversees the training) said.
“Emergencies can happen anywhere and our aim is to provide the same high level of care whether we’re on land, in the air or out on the water.”
The training also gives paramedics the opportunity to practice working in challenging conditions, including tight spaces and unpredictable environments.
“While these situations can be demanding, the focus is always on safety and collaboration, ensuring the best outcomes for patients,” he said.
In addition to clinical skills, becoming a MICA flight paramedic requires exceptional dedication, experience, advanced qualifications and ongoing training.
“It’s a commitment to continuous learning and teamwork.”
The training also highlights the importance of communication and teamwork in high-pressure situations.
“Whether working with other emergency services or coordinating with volunteer marine crews, seamless collaboration is critical for successful outcomes.”
Andrew said while paramedics are always ready to assist, simple precautions can help everyone stay safe during the warmer months and reminded the community to take care in and around water.
Top safety tips:
Always wear a correctly fitted life jacket, whether boating, swimming or participating in water sports.
Read signs around waterways to familiarise yourself with potential dangers.
Avoid swimming in unknown waters, fast-moving waterways, or areas with submerged hazards like debris or rocks.
Never swim alone and let someone know where you’re going.
Stay alert around waterways and keep a close eye on children in and around the water.
Don’t swim after drinking alcohol.
If you see someone in trouble in the water, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
If in a remote location, you can use the Emergency Plus app to call for help.
To see our MICA flight paramedics in action, visit the AV Facebook page for a behind-the-scenes video of their latest water winch exercise.
