Shepparton MICA Paramedic Phil Betts marks 50 years of service
January 22, 2025in Community News
After an extraordinary half-century of service, Shepparton MICA paramedic Phil Betts is calling time on his illustrious career with Ambulance Victoria.
Phil’s journey began on January 20, 1975, with the Goulburn Valley Ambulance Service and, over the decades, he has become a cornerstone of the Shepparton community, embodying dedication, resilience and compassion.
Reflecting on his 50 years in the job, Phil credits his love of the work and the camaraderie with colleagues as the key to his longevity in the service. “I really enjoyed the job,” Phil said. “It wasn’t work for me. I looked forward to every shift, every challenge and the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.”
Phil at Shepparton branch in the early years
Phil began his career as a cadet and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1994, after an initial setback, he qualified as a Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedic – a role he would hold for 30 years. “The first time I attempted the MICA course, I failed,” Phil admitted. “But I told myself failure wasn’t an option. The second time, I was determined, and I succeeded. That was one of the highlights of my career.”
Phil has witnessed profound changes in paramedicine during his tenure, from the introduction of advanced pain management protocols to the use of clot-busting drugs in the field.
“When I started, intubation and cannulation were unheard of for paramedics,” he said. “Today, those skills are essential. The evolution of our scope of practice has been incredible.”
Shepparton STM Sean Beames commended Phil for his unwavering commitment and mentorship of new paramedics. “Phil’s knowledge and experience have been a guiding light for so many of us,” Sean said. ”He is calm under pressure and his dedication to patient care has been nothing short of inspiring.”
Phil also made a significant impact off the road, contributing as a driving facilitator and ensuring safe driving practices for new recruits. “I enjoyed that role because I wanted to help improve the driving skills of our team,” Phil said.
As Phil prepares to retire on February 3, 2025, his plans include spending more time with his nine grandchildren, pursuing his hobbies of competitive rifle shooting and croquet, and engaging in church and community activities. For Phil, the past five decades have been about meeting challenges head-on and striving for excellence. “Every job was a chance to test myself, to see how I’d perform under pressure, and to do my very best for my patients,” he said.
While his pager may fall silent, the legacy of Phil Betts will resonate in Shepparton and beyond.