Integrating and engaging with traditional owners on remote locations

As we have documented on many occasions, our teams are constantly on the lookout for ways in which to interact with and add value to local communities and Indigenous partners. One of our stars is paramedic, Brian Hughes, Team Leader at one of our important and very remote FNQ sites.

Brian spent 2 plus hours with local traditional owners (Tos) from the client Cultural Heritage team and a couple of archaeologists who agreed to take part as actors and extras in a simple multi-casualty training exercise (light vehicle into tree).

Brian commented on some interesting learning outcomes for all:

• Local TO’s are not allowed to play at being ‘dead’ as it is believed to bring bad luck
• The TO’s love the opportunity to be obstructive, naughty and belligerent actors!!
• The ERT had to confront a fairly realistic scene which involved Indigenous members only and that brought a new communication dynamic to their training.
• For the TOs, it reinforced the importance of taking extra care when driving especially in areas where there is no phone signal / communications.
• The TOs got to see the difficulties that a small rescue team has with a scene as simple as a light vehicle into tree.
• Great interaction between two teams in a large organisation that would not normally interact on a daily basis

It is clear that this type of exercise really strengthens relationships while emphasizing safety and prevention and enhancing emergency preparedness and capabilities. Well done Brian!!