It was a beautiful day in Victoria, and the city was buzzing with energy as runners took part in an exciting 8K race. But in the middle of all the cheers and footsteps, something suddenly went wrong.
One of the runners collapsed on the course — their heart stopped. It was a terrifying moment. But help was already there.
St. John Ambulance volunteer Medical First Responders, who were on site for the event, were ready. Thanks to careful planning and bike teams stationed along the route, they reached the runner within seconds.
Their training kicked in right away. They worked together to assess the situation, started CPR, and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) — the same life-saving tools used by paramedics. And before the ambulance even arrived, they had done something amazing:
they brought back the runner’s pulse.
Trained Volunteers. Real Emergencies. Real Results.
This emergency could have ended very differently. But thanks to the fast, expert care of our trained volunteers and others who assisted, the runner got the help they needed — when they needed it most.
Their actions are a clear example of what happens when preparation meets purpose.
Because when St. John Ambulance volunteers are on site, they’re not just attending an event — they’re protecting lives.
Safer Communities Start with Us
This story from Victoria, just like the others, shows exactly why first aid training and community response matter.
From highways and classrooms to airplanes and race courses, the message is the same:
Emergencies happen. Training saves lives.
Every volunteer we train, every person we equip with first aid skills, brings us one step closer to a safer world.
Together, we’re not just responding to emergencies — we’re building communities ready to face them.
