Bicycle paramedics set to roll around Brisbane

A new mobile and dynamic Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) team has been formed to respond to emergencies in and around Brisbane City and provide assistance during major events, festivals and celebrations.

After a successful trial on the Gold Coast, the Brisbane Bicycle Response Team (BRT) has rolled into action and is tasked with responding to incidents in the CBD, Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and South Brisbane, whether they be in parklands, shopping precincts or private residences.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said the team, which began operating on 26 February, would strengthen ambulance resources already available in the area.

“BRT officers will treat patients who don’t require transportation to hospital as well as provide initial care until other resources arrive for those who do need further medical assistance,” Minister Miles said.

“The team has a unique ability to quickly access areas that can often be difficult for vehicles to get to, like malls, parklands, pedestrian only precincts and high traffic zones.

“This is about keeping residents and visitors safe during the day to day hustle and bustle of the city and during big events like Riverfire, New Year’s Eve and sporting matches.

“The Gold Coast team will also form part of the QAS Gold Coast Commonwealth Games response.”

QAS Commissioner Russell Bowles said a trial of a BRT unit on the Gold Coast had proved successful enough for it to be expanded to Brisbane.

“The team on the Gold Coast has come to know the area extremely well and has been able to respond to many cases within a matter of minutes by using bikeways, paths and malls to beat the traffic,” Mr Bowles said.

“The Brisbane team is operating in a similar way – utilising the many bike lanes and river crossings like the Kurilpa Bridge and Goodwill Bridge to respond to cases.

“We had an overwhelming response from paramedics wanting to be a part of this team and all five who’ve been selected are keen cyclists and most have a history of competitive racing.

“The team will ride hardtail mountain bikes equipped with safety livery and lighting and will respond with a primary response kit that includes an automatic external defibrillator, advanced airway kit and major/minor trauma kit.

“A customised support vehicle fitted out with extra equipment will allow the officers to be deployed to other areas if required.

“The BRT adds to the suite of services Brisbane residents and visitors have access to including ambulances, emergency response vehicles, Local-area Assessment and Referral Units, Specialist Transport and Retrieval Unit, the High Acuity Response Unit, Patient Transport Service and aeromedical resources.”

The Brisbane BRT will initially comprise of five officers who will work in teams of two covering a ten-hour shift, 7 days a week.

The BRT trained with the Queensland Police Service’s experienced Bike Squad, learning bicycle maintenance and riding techniques and skills.

ENDS

Media contact:             Amy Hunter - 0423 651 484

Video and pictures of the BRT training can be accessed here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/mbjew1kpnay4v5e/AACjzvr2qBjRGZQ1_fep8ihwa?dl=0