Chelsea Coulson’s experience as a lifeguard led her to pursue a career as a paramedic and now she finds herself in Geelong.
Chelsea is one of Barwon South West’s newest graduate paramedics and her Ambulance Victoria (AV) career took off after she began AV’s Graduate Bridging Paramedic (GBP) program late last year.
It’s a 16-month program which sees GBPs spend six months working and completing learning tasks under direct supervision on a Medium Acuity Transport Service (MATS) vehicle, before transitioning to work on an emergency vehicle.
Reflecting on her path to AV, Chelsea said she was inspired to pursue a career as a first responder after becoming involved with her local lifesaving club in Williamstown.
“Volunteering there was my first exposure to first aid and community engagement,” she said.
“This quickly sparked my interest, so I continued to gain experience by working as a lifeguard at both local recreation centres and beaches.
“My experience from a young age in this area really reinforced my passion to become a paramedic because I’ve always wanted a career that has a positive impact on the community, and as a paramedic you assist people in their greatest moments of need.”
Now into her graduate position at AV, Chelsea said she’s loving every moment.
“Geelong is such a great area and I’m very fortunate to begin my career here,” she said.
“I’ve really enjoyed my first few months on road and feel like I’ve settled in quite well. A real highlight for me has been meeting all the other fantastic paramedics in the region.”
