Badger student Clinton was treated to an insiders view of the helicopter by Police Air Wing Air Observer Dan Chandler.WHEN the Victorian Air Ambulance descended on Badger Creek Primary School last week, it was an emergency of a different kind – an emergency of education.
Students were treated to a visit from Victoria Police, including local Healesville members, who dropped in to talk about the various services they provide to the community.
Detective Senior Constable Roger Willems from the Glen Waverley Armed Robbery Unit, said he organised the visit to help children in the local area understand the important role police and paramedics play in an emergency.
Det Sen Const Willems said the visit was a chance for the members to meet the children and let them know police are there to help everyone.
He said they sometimes hear that children are frightened of police and the visit was aimed at showing them police are approachable and for the students to get something positive from the experience.
Principal Garry Embry said it was an exciting opportunity for the students to witness a helicopter landing on their oval.
“The visit allowed the students to familiarise themselves with the ambulance helicopter and the role police and paramedics play in emergency situations,” he said.
“Most people only get to experience these things at times of trauma. Being able to see these important resources in an educational and calm setting is both worthwhile and exciting for students.”
Mr Embry said the helicopter and police support is a particularly important resource to have available when living in a semi-rural community.
“We are such a long distance from the larger hospitals, it makes these services absolutely essential when a crisis occurs,” he said.
He said the students loved having the chance to speak with local paramedics and police members.
“It helps them build a respect for those who help to serve our community and assist us in times of need,” Mr Embry said.
