Two outstanding first responders from Ambulance Victoria have been named finalists in the prestigious Victorian Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards (Vic RESCA), which celebrate excellence and selfless service across Victoria's emergency services.
Annette Gillam, Team Leader of the Maldon Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and Graeme McLean, Ambulance Community Officer (ACO) in Sea Lake, have both been recognised among just 30 finalists statewide across all emergency service agencies.
Annette has been nominated for Rotary Districts of Victoria Emergency Service Officer of the Year - Volunteer Category. With more than 15 years of service to the Maldon CERT, she has long been known as a reliable, compassionate, and community-minded volunteer. Her nomination acknowledges not only her tireless work with Ambulance Victoria, but also her deep commitment to other aspects of her local community through the Maldon Historical Society and Maldon Bowling Club.
"It's an incredible honour to be recognised for work that feels so natural to me. Our volunteers don't do this for awards, we do it because our community matters," Annette said.
"When you're part of an emergency response team, you're not just helping individuals, you're supporting an entire community.
"Being nominated isn't about me, it's about highlighting the incredible work our volunteers do every single day.
"Sometimes just showing up and being willing to help can make a real difference. That's what volunteering is all about."
Graeme has been nominated for Rotary Districts of Victoria Emergency Service Officer of the Year - Paid Category, recognising more than 13 years of dedicated service in his dual role as a farmer and ACO in Sea Lake. Graeme consistently makes himself available to support his community, balancing his role as an ACO with the responsibilities of running his family farm. Beyond his clinical care, he plays a vital role in community education, delivering CPR and first aid training and leading local health promotion efforts.
"It's a privilege to support my local community - these are my neighbours, friends and family," Graeme said.
"Whether I'm in the paddock or in the ambulance, I'm always ready to help."
The Vic RESCA awards are unique in that they are community-nominated, celebrating those who demonstrate Rotary's motto of "Service Above Self". Finalists span a broad range of emergency services including Ambulance Victoria, CFA, Victoria Police, Life Saving Victoria and more.
Ambulance Victoria's Director of Regional and Clinical Operations, Loddon Mallee, Matt McCrohan, congratulated both finalists on their well-deserved recognition.
"Annette and Graeme exemplify what it means to serve with heart and dedication. They go above and beyond for their communities every day - this recognition is a reflection of the impact they've had across regional Victoria," Mr McCrohan said.
The winners of the 2025 Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards will be announced at a gala dinner at Essendon Fields on Saturday, 6 September.
Ambulance Victoria congratulates Annette and Graeme on this honour and wishes them the very best at the awards.
