About Us

After completing driver training, Gemma moved to the Patient Transfer Service when the events she would normally provide medical cover at were postponed or cancelled due to COVID-19.

Working for the Patient Transfer Service, singled crewed can be challenging, says Gemma, as you really have to problem solve. “I’m not originally from Wellington so the driving has really helped me find my way around.

“I love getting out into the community, meeting people and listening to their stories. It’s very rewarding to know you're making a difference,” she says.

Originally from London, Gemma moved to Auckland in 2002 and then to Wellington to pursue her dream of becoming a paramedic.

With her children both in their teens it felt like the right time to return to study and fulfil her goals. 

“I’ve always wanted to be a paramedic, it’s my dream job,” says Gemma. 

Caring for others runs in the family, her mum, grandmother and great aunt were all nurses back home in the England.  

“I was drawn to paramedicine as every day is different and I get to work in such a variety of environments.

“I decided to volunteer to get to know the city and community I moved to when I chose to study paramedicine at Whitireia Polytechnic.” She says being an event medic was an ideal way to complement her learning and practice her skills.

Gemma recalls tending to one patient who had fallen at a cricket match. Despite being injured they wanted to stay and watch the match. “We cleaned the patient up and made them as comfortable as we could. 

“They later took the time to write a letter to Wellington Free to thank us – knowing that the care I gave this patient really made a difference is the best part of being a volunteer,” she says.

Working for Wellington Free is like being part of a big family and Gemma says she has really enjoyed experiencing a different part of the Wellington Free team. “Everyone is so friendly and always willing to help each other out.”

“I really like being part of Wellington Free and plan on sticking around.”

Fancy joining Gemma and the Event Medic team? If you’re interested in volunteering with Wellington Free Ambulance can find more on our volunteer page.

If you’re keen to help your community, we would love to hear from you.