For most children, the school holidays have been spent playing on the computer and taking trips to the beach, but for 15 year old Sippy Downs resident Michael Andrews, the school holidays involved competing in the St John Ambulance National Cadet First Aid Competitions.
For most children, the school holidays have been spent playing on the computer and taking trips to the beach, but for 15 year old Sippy Downs resident Michael Andrews, the school holidays involved competing in the St John Ambulance National Cadet First Aid Competitions.
Michael was accompanied by four other Cadets from Queensland to compete in the National Cadet Competitions, held in Darwin earlier this month. The competitions are an annual event to test the first aid skills of St John Cadets. Cadets are provided with mock scenarios ranging from a minor ant bite, to a car accident, explosion and injuries involving the need for CPR.
State Youth Manager Sarah Cunningham said the National Cadet Competitions were an important part of the St John (Qld) calendar, as they allowed youth members to showcase their abilities and meet other volunteers from across Australia.
Michael joined St John (Qld) Sunshine Coast Division alongside his father Tyrone, three years ago and has already donated more than 800 hours to the worthy cause.
“Originally, I joined St John in 2005 as a Cadet in the London District, before I moved to the Queensland 3 years ago and joined the Sunshine Coast Division,” he said.
Michael enjoys helping the community and volunteering with a group of people who share the same passion as he does.
“St John is a really fun way of learning first aid, and it is great to know you can be the difference between a life saved or a life lost.”
Since joining, Michael has completed a fire safety and radio communications badge.
“When I grow up, I would like to become an emergency medicine doctor at the hospital – St John has provided me with real life mentors such as doctors and nurses, who give me great advice on career opportunities.
Cadets can join from the age of 8 years, and earn badges including ANZAC heritage, caring for animals, casualty simulation, child care, communications, family care, handicrafts and more.
The Sunshine Coast Division will be hosting an open night for all those interested in joining on Tuesday 3 February from 6pm to 7pm. The open night will be held in the St John Room, Syd Lingard Drive, Buderim. If you have an interest in health care, want to give back to the community or are just looking at joining a passionate and friendly group of people, contact the Sunshine Coast Division on 0407 173 981 or email sunshinecoast@stjohnqld.com.au.
Photo ops and interviews are available upon request.
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Media contact: Angela Madden on (07) 3253 0579