Thursday, 3 August 2023

Ministers statements: Junior Triple Zero Hero Awards

Jaclyn SYMES (Northern Victoria – Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (12:07): Yesterday I spoke about the distinguished career of one emergency services leader, but today I want to update the house on the next generation of emergency services personnel, potentially, because I met some really, really amazing young people last week. I was honoured to attend the Junior Triple Zero Hero Awards. Now in its 19th year, the awards recognise young heroes who are nominated by ESTA call takers for their clear thinking and composure in emergencies when speaking to 000 call takers. Twenty-four young heroes from all corners of Victoria were honoured, ranging from the age of five – they were so cute – to 15 years old at the time when they called 000. Each of them were cool, calm and clear in a moment of crisis, fear and panic. In every instance they demonstrated their bravery, their maturity and their absolute care for their loved ones.

A young gentleman named Connor was six when he called 000 for the first time because his mum was struggling after choking on dinner. Speaking to ESTA call taker Sam, he remained calm, provided location details, followed instructions and unlocked the front door to allow paramedics inside to help. Connor told Sam that he was trying to look after his mum but that he wanted to make sure the sirens were not too loud because he did not want them to hurt his ears.

It was a privilege to meet so many esteemed young Victorians, and it was a heartwarming opportunity for the young heroes and their families to meet and thank the call taker who looked after them. I also report that the lolly table and the chocolate fondue station were crowd favourites. It was one of the highlights of my year – talking to young people but also the important message about teaching young people how to call 000. These kids are going to be rock stars at their school, and they were all excited about making sure that other young people knew how to call 000 as well. It was a lovely event.