Rochester’s new Ambulance Victoria branch was officially opened by state Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes and AV interim chief executive Andrew Crisp on Tuesday, December 17.
The pair toured the site, guided by AV Loddon Mallee regional director Matt McCrohan and Rochester paramedics and ambulance community officers.
In operation since September 23, the station has a range of updated facilities, including a three-bay garage, two rest-and-recline areas, long-term accommodation, a training room, a fully equipped kitchen, car parking and improved security.
Ms Symes reflected on the ability of the new branch to provide an improved level of service in the region.
She also drew on its significance after the challenges faced by Rochester.
“It’s a really good beacon of the important things for Rochester,” she said.
“I know that Rochester in particular, given years and years of experience, really value their emergency services, whether it’s ambulance, SES, CFA.
“To be in town to celebrate what you do — thank you for what you’re doing — but officially open the building ... it’s a great pre-Christmas community message.
“I feel so honoured to be a representative of Rochester.”
Mr Crisp echoed those sentiments, crediting the contributions of AV staff across the state.
“It’s really about the incredible work you do,” he said.
“The professionalism, not just the clinical care, but the kindness you demonstrate at the same time.
“It’s a big organisation with many moving parts, and if we do our job to the very best of our ability, we will be successful.”
The upgraded site is one of 40 stations completed over the past nine years, and sets the standard for future builds.
Particular benefits of the facility are the rest-and-recline areas and bedrooms, providing space for AV staff to recover after shifts, or to house out-of-town support.
“This is an incredible facility,” Mr Crisp said.
“Our paramedics, our ambulance community officers deserve the very best of facilities, and we need to support them so they can support the community.
“This is a great example.”
The Ambulance Victoria Enterprise Agreement 2024 saw almost 80 per cent of eligible employees voting in the ballot, with 97.3 per cent in favour of the agreement.
Key conditions include better end-of-shift experience and improved work-life balance.
Ms Symes believes the upgrades to the Rochester branch can help support these conditions.
“A facility like this having the special spaces, if you’ve had overtime, there are bedrooms, just the ability to wind down and have some space that isn’t a cramped, outdated facility really supports the work that they do,” she said.
“Even in the toughest of times when they’re pushed to the limit, and they do overtime, you’ve got a place to come back to, and it’s more safe.
“For Rochester in particular, new EBA, new station open, I think it’s pretty bright for paramedics in this region.”