Chaplain Jennifer McGuirk

Congratulations to Jennifer McGuirk OAM, winner of the 2026 Rotary Districts of Victoria Emergency Services Community Award (VICESCA) in the Volunteer category!

A “little birdie” passed along the news, though it comes as no surprise to those who know her—Jenny is always one to keep these incredible achievements quietly to herself. In fact, many of us were completely unaware she had been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia, a testament to her humbleness.

Jenny is a deeply respected Volunteer Chaplain for Ambulance Victoria and a Life Member of TRAAVI. Her dedication, energy, and steadfast support across the Metro North and Metro West Districts make her value to our retired ambulance community truly immeasurable.

Congratulations, Jenny! We are incredibly grateful for everything you do and continue to offer our TRAAVI members.

 

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Vale Austen Todd

It is with great sadness that TRAAVI acknowledges the passing of Austen James Loden Todd, a recent member of our Association and a former Ambulance Victoria paramedic.

Although Austen had only recently joined TRAAVI and many of us did not have the opportunity to know him well, he was among those who have shared the ambulance service journey — a connection that brings together so many of us, both during and beyond our years of service.

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Austen’s immediate family, his friends and all those who knew and cared for him. We hope they find strength and comfort in the memories they hold of him and in the support of those around them.

On behalf of TRAAVI, we extend our sincere condolences at this very sad time.

A funeral service for Austen will be held on Monday, 7 September 2026 at 2:30 pm at Nelson Bros Funeral Services, Williamstown. A livestream of the service is also available.

Funeral details and livestream:
https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/49418097/austen-james-loden-todd

Vale Austen. May he rest peacefully.

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A Retirement Celebration for Paul James

After more than 30 years of dedicated service to Ambulance Victoria, Paul James has decided to retire.

 

Throughout his stellar career, Paul has made an extraordinary contribution to Ambulance Victoria and the communities we serve.

 

His unwavering commitment, professionalism, leadership and support of colleagues have left a lasting impact across the organisation.

 

To celebrate Paul’s remarkable career and wish him well for the future, you are warmly invited to join us for an evening of celebration:

 

Retirement Celebration for Paul James

 

Date: Friday, September 18th

 

Time: From 6:00 pm

 

Venue: Drouin Golf & Country Club

 

To help cover the evening’s arrangements, the cost is $54.26 per person inclusive of:

*finger food,

*celebration cake,

*a contribution to a farewell gift,

*the Eventbrite booking fee.

This will be an opportunity to reflect on Paul’s many achievements, share stories and memories, and thank him for his years of service.

Use this link to secure your ticket      https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/paul-james-is-leaving-the-building-tickets-1996534916681?aff=oddtdtcreator

VALE TONY WALKER ASM – MEMBER 1494

It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we inform members of the passing of our respected colleague and friend, Anthony “Tony” Walker ASM, who passed away today, 20th July 2026, at the age of 63.

Tony was a dedicated life-long servant to the Victorian community and a true leader in pre-hospital care. He first joined the Victorian Ambulance Service on 10th February 1986, embarking on an extraordinary career as a paramedic. His exceptional skills and commitment naturally led him into clinical leadership roles, where his vision continued to shape the service.

Upon his retirement on 22nd October 2022, Tony concluded a distinguished tenure as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ambulance Victoria—a position he held with immense pride and integrity for almost a decade. His profound impact on the profession earned him the prestigious Ambulance Service Medal (ASM).

Tony joined the Retired Ambulance Association of Victoria (TRAAVI) shortly after his retirement in November 2022, remaining a proud part of our MetroWest district. He was a deeply admired paramedic, an inspirational leader, and an administrator who achieved monumental positive change throughout his career.

On behalf of the Committee and all members of TRAAVI, we extend our deepest, most heartfelt condolences to Tony’s partner, Robyn Cameron, his family, loved ones, and former colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.

Details regarding funeral arrangements and service information will be shared with members once they become available.

Rest in peace, Tony. Your legacy lives on.

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Victorian Ambulance Cadet History Project – Call for Participants

The Retired Ambulance Association of Victoria (TRAAVI) is pleased to support this important research project being conducted through the Department of Paramedicine at Monash University by Peter O’Meara and Ken Curtis.
This study aims to recognise and acknowledge the contribution of the Victorian Ambulance Service Cadet Program of the 1960s and 1970s — a program that played a significant role in shaping ambulance services and paramedic education in Victoria.
We encourage former cadets, or the families of those who were part of the program, to consider participating. This is an opportunity to ensure that the experiences, contributions and legacy of cadets are properly recorded and recognised.
Participation involves completing a short online questionnaire (approximately 15–25 minutes), with the option to contribute additional information, documents or a short personal biography.
TRAAVI recognises the importance of preserving our shared history and acknowledges the efforts of Peter and Ken in undertaking this work.
For further information provided by Peter & Ken and to participate, please access the link provided below.