Two leading Queensland aeromedical organisations have joined forces to encourage Capricorn region communities to learn free, lifesaving skills to help in a medical emergency.
Capricorn (Cap) Rescue is teaming up with LifeFlight to deliver free trauma training workshops, First Minutes Matter.
The partnership will see workshops hosted in the Capricorn region to help build community resilience and strengthen chain of survival skills.
The program was developed by LifeFlight’s critical care doctors, who service the region onboard CapRescue aircraft, and have experienced first-hand how early intervention can make a positive difference in a patient’s outcome.
This year, 119 workshops have been delivered across Queensland with a target of 450 in 2026.
The new partnership will enable even more communities to be equipped with lifesaving skills.
In a workshop, participants learn practical skills to manage life-threatening events like car crashes, farming accidents, snake bites and strokes.
LifeFlight CEO Ashley van de Velde said the First Minutes Matter program empowers communities, particularly in rural and remote areas, where professional help can take longer to arrive.
“In those critical first minutes after an emergency, having the knowledge and confidence to act can mean the difference between life and death — for a loved one, a neighbour, or even a complete stranger,” Mr van de Velde said.
“No one should be left feeling helpless in a moment of crisis. These workshops are about giving everyday people the skills to step in and make a real difference while waiting for specialist care.
“We’re proud to partner with trusted organisations like CapRescue to deliver this vital training. Their connection to the region will help us reach more people and build stronger, safer communities across Queensland.”
CapRescue provides lifesaving, around-the-clock aeromedical care at no cost to patients where and when it’s needed most.
CapRescue CEO Darren Pirie said First Minutes Matter aligned with the organisation’s commitment to improving emergency outcomes across Central Queensland.
“When someone is seriously injured, those first minutes can be critical — and knowing what to do before specialist care arrives can make all the difference,” Mr Pirie said.
“We’ve had communities reach out to us asking for exactly this kind of support — practical training and information on what they can do while they wait for us to arrive. This partnership also allows us to connect with more parts of our region, by providing lifesaving skills that could make all the difference in an emergency.”
