Cowra has welcomed a new paramedic, with Rachel Stansfield joining the ranks of our health workers serving the Shire.
Joining the NSW Ambulance Special Operations Unit, Rachel has undergone further training to undertake high pressure, complex rescues.
The Cowra Guardian had the good fortune to get some insight in what motivated Rachel to join, and some background for those who might be interested in what it takes to join and work in this highly specialised field to help others when they are most in need.
1. What was your background before joining NSW Ambulance?
Before joining NSW Ambulance, I had a passion for human biology and a deep desire to care for people during their time of need. It felt like a natural step for me to pursue a career as a paramedic, where I could combine my love for science with my desire to help others.
Latest Stories
2. What’s the training journey been like?
My training journey has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. I started at Penrith for my paramedic training year in March 2020, and a year later, I was posted to Cowra for my permanent paramedic placement. It was at Cowra that I was introduced to the Special Operations Unit (SOU), and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. My first attempt at the rescue course didn’t go as planned—I failed the tactical medicine assessment with only two weeks left, which was tough. But the instructors and my colleagues at Cowra were so supportive, encouraging me to try again. I came back stronger, created a more rigorous physical training plan, and sought help when needed. In August 2024, I graduated as the only female in the course and became the second female to join the Rescue & Special Operations team at Cowra.
3. How are you finding the posting here so far?
So far, I’ve loved my posting at Cowra. Initially, I was nervous about being posted to a regional station, but it turned out to be the best thing that could’ve happened for my career. Working in one of the state’s rescue stations has been a fantastic learning experience. The team at Cowra has been incredibly supportive and welcoming, and they’ve always taken the time to share their knowledge and experiences with me, which made me feel confident in taking on the challenges of rescue operations.
4. What’s your next big goal with NSW Ambulance?
My next big goal is to continue growing within the Special Operations Unit and to encourage more women to apply for rescue roles. Women bring valuable skills such as strong communication and multi-tasking abilities, which are crucial in high-pressure rescue situations. I hope to see more female operators joining the team, as it’s important for the team to be diverse and reflect the skills that all genders bring to the table. I’m also excited to keep developing my own skills and knowledge within SOU.
5. Do you have any advice for anyone thinking about a career as a paramedic?
My advice would be to make sure you’re truly passionate about helping people and be prepared for the challenges the role brings. The training can be tough, both mentally and physically, but persistence and resilience are key. Work hard to prepare yourself physically, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it—whether it's from your peers, instructors, or colleagues. Also, remember that in high-stress situations, it’s important to stay calm and trust in your training and your team.
