What he didn't realise was just how quickly that would occur.
Private Banks had just finished medic school when he was called up to be a part of Australia’s frontline response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I’m straight out of school and can’t believe I’m already making a difference — COVID has taken everyone by surprise,” Pte Banks said.
The 23-year-old joined the army after high school in Penrith in Sydney and completed his training in Brisbane.
He is now part of a medical team supporting the Victorian Government’s response to COVID-19 in Shepparton.
“I am so proud to be part of the medical team, I have learned so much from every member of Operation COVID-19 Assist; the doctors, the nurses, the other medics who are here with me, and those from the non-medical team,” Pte Banks said.
“Working in support of the Victorian Government has been an eye opener, and I can see so many opportunities for co-operation.
“I hope to take the skills I have learned during the COVID-19 response to better prepare me for the Bachelor of Paramedic Practice at the University of Tasmania.
“I had to defer my study this semester, but the skills I am learning in these clinics will help me in the long run.”
Pte Banks was testing symptomatic patients alongside clinical nurse Lisa Llewellyn who said the pop-up clinic at Mooroopna allowed them to test and respond to operating conditions quickly.
“The Australian Defence Force has been invaluable in setting up and packing down the pop-up clinic and helping us to determine how to work in temporary locations like this,” Ms Llewellyn said.
By Flying Officer Jessica Winnall
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