ONE year into his health care training, North Stradbroke Island cadet Robert Rattray has seen everything from campfire burns to anaphylaxis, and is now taking the next step towards becoming a paramedic.
Mr Rattray is a member of the Indigenous Paramedic Program, which provides a pathway for Indigenous people aspiring to work with the Queensland Ambulance Service.
He said he had first turned his sights to paramedicine while volunteering with the fire service.
"I went to a serious car accident over here and saw what the paramedics were doing for the patient," he said.
"Firies do a great job but looking after people is a lot better for me."
Last Friday, Mr Rattray attended a ceremony at Spring Hill where he was recognised for completing his Certificate IV in Health Care, the first step in the program.
Cadets then complete a Diploma before finally getting their Bachelor in Paramedicine.
This education is fully supported by the QAS while the recruits get practical experience.
A QAS spokesman said after the program, recruits could work in their own communities.
"This link and understanding of the Indigenous residents and culture are an immense benefit to ambulance services in these areas," he said.
Mr Rattray said working in the small island community meant he could help people he knew.
"One of my first jobs, I had to retrieve a friend's sister who was involved in a plane accident," he said.
"I was glad that it was me - it was really good to be there for her."
He said the island's remote nature meant paramedics' jobs were a little different than those on the mainland.
"I've done a few chopper rescues. We've had campers falling in fires, surfing incidents, anaphylaxis, some pretty big jobs," he said.
"Because of the travel time from Straddie to the mainland, you've got to try to get your patient there as quick as possible and in the best condition possible.
"You're treating them more, you spend more time with the patient."
Mr Rattray hoped he would do his kids and his community proud in his new career.
"I'm trying to show (the children), put the hard work in early, study hard and you can go anywhere you want," he said.
"I'd like to say thanks to the Quandamooka people and the Minjerribah Moorgumpin Elders for giving me this opportunity - hopefully I can pay them back."
