Dedicated volunteers from St John Ambulance Queensland’s Event Health Services (EHS) team have saved the life of a 16 year old boy after he suffered a severe spinal injury.
On Saturday, February 22, Quinn Monaghan alongside other volunteer members, provided critical care to a young man who suffered a serious mountain biking accident.
16-year-old Finlay Evans was participating in a 24-hour endurance charity event in Mudgeeraba. He was taking part in 5 gruelling physical challenges to raise funds and awareness for at-risk youth.
During the mountain bike leg of the challenge, Finlay came off his bike falling approximately four meters at a speed of around 30 km’s per hour.
Upon arrival, the EHS team suspected a cervical spine injury and a possible fractured clavicle and forearm.
Applying their extensive training, Quinn and his colleague employed a variety of manual in-line stablisation (MILS) techniques and acute traumatic spinal cord injury management guidelines.
Utilising a cervical collar, spinal board, and a specialty of manual and vehicular extrication techniques, Finlay was safely extricated from the mountainside.
Finlay remained in the care of the EHS members until Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) arrived and took over his care, transporting him to Gold Coast University Hospital.
Finlay’s mother, Vicky, a registered nurse, received a call and rushed from work to be by Finlay’s side.
“The volunteers were so meticulous in their care and I’m incredibly grateful to them. The accident happened on a part of the track that was difficult to reach, and they were so careful not to move Finlay and took full precautions to protect his spine,” said Vicky.
“Initially I thought they were being overly cautious but given how serious the injury turned out to be I am so thankful for the care the volunteers provided.”
As a result of the injury, Finlay underwent surgery.
“When I spoke to the neurosurgeon who operated on Finlay he confirmed that without the initial treatment provided the outcome could have been very different, there was a very high chance that Finlay could have become a quadriplegic.”
This incident highlights the vital role of trained volunteers in emergency situations and underscores the importance of ongoing training and resources.
A qualified paramedic and volunteer since 2022, Quinn stated “Accidents and emergencies can occur anytime, anywhere. As volunteers it’s our responsibility to ensure we are fully prepared to support people during moments that could profoundly impact their lives.”
“This experience for me, reignited the passion I have for volunteering and proves that what we do can make the greatest difference for someone on potentially their worst day.”
The St John Queensland, Event Health Services volunteers drive impactful change through their tireless efforts. Their work continues to engage, support, and empower communities, inspiring holistic growth and development.
St John Ambulance Queensland CEO, Peter L Maher praised the commitment and dedication to service shown by Quinn and the other volunteer members present on the day.
“The commitment of individuals like Quinn not only saves lives but also strengthens the fabric of our community. As we reflect on this event, it is crucial to recognise the need for continuous investment in volunteer training and equipment to ensure that we are always prepared for the unexpected.”
Anyone interested in volunteering with the St John Ambulance Queensland EHS team can register their interest by contacting volunteer@stjohnqld.com.au or calling 1300 785 646.
