Local residents will have the chance to learn vital trauma response skills at two free “First Minutes Matter” workshops, hosted by LifeFlight, Queensland’s aeromedical rescue service, in Port Douglas and Mareeba on 14 and 15 July.

Held at the Port Douglas Community Hall on Sunday 14 July and CWA Hall Mareeba on Monday 15 July, the workshops aim to equip attendees with practical, life-saving techniques that could make all the difference in an emergency.

Led by experienced emergency medicine educators, the sessions will cover how to respond in the crucial first minutes after incidents such as snake bites, farming accidents, strokes, car crashes, and burns. 

Participants will also learn key skills including CPR, how to use defibrillators (AEDs), manage bleeding and choking, and respond to anaphylaxis and seizures.

Dr. Ritvik Gilhotra is a critical care doctor with LifeFlight, operating aboard the Cairns-based Queensland Government Air helicopter, will help deliver the workshops and says they’re about giving people the confidence to act before emergency crews arrive.

“Survival starts on the ground. In those first critical minutes, it’s often family members, friends, or bystanders who make the biggest difference,” he said.