Testimonials

What People are saying about us ...

SHORT COURSES
(CPR/FA/LVR/ADVANCED RESUSCITATION ETC):

 

I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for the excellent training received yesterday at First Response Australia.  I attended the Senior First Aid course facilitated by Phil yesterday (12.3.24).  I have completed numerous First Aid courses with First Response Australia, Cairns and would like to say that the program being provided is great.  The information is current, relatable and relevant for real life first responder situations.  I would also like to say that the trainer - Phil was top notch!  He demonstrated his thorough knowledge in this area and was an absolute pleasure to have as the instructor.  

Thank you - Happy Customer - 2024

We just wanted to send our thanks and congratulate your organisation on providing such a wonderful experience to us and our team member who attended your CPR refresher training at the airport yesterday. Natalie and I attended First Response for our first aid training, since we worked for Misssion Australia's homeless programs 2017-2021, and we have continued to use First Response ever since stepping out on our own with our NDIS suppport business Innovative Supports. We always have a great time in your classes, and leave knowing our knowledge has been refreshed and we are prepared to face another year. Thank you for providing such excellent service and brilliant engaging trainers.   

Anne & Natalie - 2024

I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Marlon, who was as knowledgeable as he was delightful.  We do bulk training in our navy lives so we do know a good course when we see one and I can't stress how truly valuable that man is to your organisation.  Please tell him a big thank you from us.   

Holly - Cairns Navy June 2022


I recently completed a BLS course in Cairns on the 22nd January 2022 and I just wanted to pass on my compliments. The instructor Marlon was engaging, very knowledgeable and I felt I gained a great deal from the course. As a doctor, I have had to complete many courses throughout my career and Marlon has been one of the best instructors I've come across and I wanted to just convey that. Thanks again for your time.  

A Hawkes - January 2022

 

I would like to say thank you for getting me into the course on Thursday at short notice. Also I found Marlon a very capable and enthusiastic presenter. I've never done a First Aid course where there were plenty of baby, child and adult aids to practice on. It was very helpful to practice with 2 different types of defibrillators too. I look forward to doing my update with you again next year. 

Maree D - August 2021


I completed my Advanced First Aid last week during the 3 day course (Wednesday, Thursday and Friday). I wish to thank the two (2) instructors, Marlon and Stuart for their very practical and informative way of teaching something that is very critical in emergency situations. I greatly appreciated their teaching skills but more importantly their way of adapting their teaching methods based on the different personalities in the group. Well done to both of them.

Brice R. October 2021



Marlon is an excellent facilitator / trainer of the first aid course and very engaging so a real asset to your business.  I'll be recommending more of our staff attend his training courses in the future.

Martin - Carpentaria Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, March 2021

 

An excellent course. All of the trainers are knowledgeable and professional. Please don't change the format, as I learn and retain what I've learnt better this way. The only training facility to do First Aid through. 

Jean Cairns, October 2020


Yesterday I completed my first ever First Aid course - in Cairns. My trainer was Bruce. In all honesty, I didn't know what to expect from such a course, or even if I would enjoy being in a room all day learning about something I was required to complete for work. To my surprise, the course was absolutely fantastic. I put this down to the trainer, Bruce. From the word go, Bruce was very welcoming and reassuring, extremely clear in his communication, very supportive of all students regardless of their previous experience, very knowledgeable about a host of topics, keen to engage and answer questions, and last but not least very humorous and entertaining. This made what could have been a very dry course so much better than what I was expecting, and increased my learning immensely. I think it's really important to acknowledge people when they provide excellent service and have a positive effect on the lives of others Bruce did just that yesterday. Contratulations on employing such a skilled and experienced trainer with excellent people skills, depth of knowledge and attention to detail. He is a credit to your organisation. 

Angie from Cairns, October 2018


First Response has been amazing, very knowledgeable trainers, great structure and location. Best place to get this sort of training in Australia.

M Castelani, Cairns, 2014.


Course was informative, a good mix between theory and practical, a course I think should be mandatory.

A Ahearn, FK Gardener Constructions, 2014.


I have done first aid training with First Response for about 10 years and always return to them for re-accreditation due to the quality of training and the assessors.

J. Walker, Cairns, 2014.


FR provided a very thorough, up to date course, which I felt prepared and equipped me with the skills to deal with an emergency situation.

A. Yeabsley, Cairns, 2014.


Always very professional and informative. They take the time for you to get it right.

C Teague, Cairns, November 2014.


I have been using First Response since its beginning with Charlie (since the early 90's). I am always amazed at the quality of the training and expertise and knowledge of the instructors. I love that this company also seems to be at the forefront of latest techniques and research.

A Gibson, Cairns, November 2014.


Time is precious to businesses and to be able to have staff trained in first aid in one day by knowlagable trainers, certainly is a pleasant surprise. This training goes beyond a text book and provided our staff with real life experiences and prepared them for what they may have to deal with. Many thanks

Vicky, RLO Pool Construction, Cairns, December 2014.


I am always impressed with the level of professionalism of the training staff at First Response. They are able to modify delivery of information to every individuals needs, ensuring everyone has success in learning to save lives.

Jan, ARC Disability Services, Cairns, December 2014.


Far more professional and informative than other courses. Covered all aspects for First Response. Friendly with hands-on application. Reception very helpful and informative.

S Richards, Cairns, January 2015.


I have been training with First Response for over 10 years. It is perfect for myself as the training is up to date, professional, easy to understand and every year I still learn something!

Todd, Smithfield Child Centre, Cairns, January 2015.


First Response Australia provided me with appropriate training to start my university course and study medicine. Their great training facilities and wonderful staff helped me to learn a lot and have placed me in a position to help others when they need it most.

K Hardwick, Cairns, January 2015.


First Response provides quality training with interesting, quality trainers. The class room and facilities for practical components are also of a high standard.

S Mobarak, Cairns, February 2015.


Personally, I've been involved at multiple first aid/medical emergency's ranging from highspeed motor vehicle accidents to protecting and caring for someone having epileptic seizures. In my personal opinion the course, 'Senior First Aid' run by FRA incorporates all necessary practices and techniques needed in todays society.

Karl, Cobham Aviation Services, Cairns, February 2015.


Its always a pleasure to be taught by instructors that have actually had real life experience, rather than just regurgitating notes from a text book.

Jamie Seymour, James Cook University, March 2015.


As an emmy award winning camerman specializing in dangerous animals, First Response has us well prepared for worst case scenario's.

R Fitzpatrick, Biopixel, March 2015.


Sending you a rather HUGE THANK YOU for helping us out last week, as such short notice. I cannot tell you how much we appreciated it!! Grahame was an excellent trainer and we all felt we were in good hands. The course was top quality, with a focus on quality first aid especially CPR. Everyone (3 volunteers, 3 committee members and club coordinator) learned heaps and enjoyed the day. Thank you for helping us to meet our duty of care to the kids in our club and to each other. We will most certainly contact you with future training enquiries. A very special thank you also for the discount you gave us as a community group. Thanks a million!!!

Tableland Region Art Society (Training funded by a Tableland Regional Council Community Grant) June 2016.

 

MEDIC COVERAGE:


We recently hosted National A-League champions Sydney FC at Barlow Park. Having First Response Australia stationed at our event gave us peace of mind that any first-aid requirements would be attended to promptly. FRA were professional, well-organised and very friendly to deal with. We will definitely be using their services again next time.

Mandy Carney, FNQ Football Foundation September 2019.


The First Response Australia Medics who attended Reef Feast 2014 were fantastic. They were the consummate professionals, arrived on time, reported in to me directly without prompting, were very well presented and very personable. Thank you! It was one less thing for me to worry about and the entire Reef Feast team felt in safe hands. We will be using you for the Reef Feast next year!

Jennifer, Event Manager, Reef Feast 2014.


Just a quick email to thank you and your team very much for your services at the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games. The sports involved in the Games have had nothing but positive comments about the services of your medics, their professionalism, flexibility and undersanding of their needs. As for our social functions, your team was nothing short of fantastic and a pleasure to work with. We have no hesitation in recommending your services to any event, sporting or otherwise. Thank you again.

J Thompson, GBR Games Coordinator, Cairns Regional Council 2015.


Big thank you to the 2 gentlemen that you sent down to the event. They were very helpful and friendly. Perfectly suited to the event.

Renee, Event Manager, Big Talk One Fire 2015.



Competent and efficient, reliable and punctual - everything that I look for when it comes to my first aid provider in our multi-sport events!

Fiona Event Coordinator, Cairns Crocs 2016.


 

PRE-HOSPITAL CARE COURSES
(EMT/BRIDGING/PHERT/ICLS):

 

It was an absolute pleasure to attend the Emergency Health Care Diploma course.   Anyone I meet throughout my career who is looking at a Cert IV/Diploma, I will definitely recommend FRA

Liam 2023

Practical scenarios tested each student individually and as a team member. Brilliant use of actual equipment and consumables.  Well run, organised and structured training.  Excellent.

AREMT+ 2022 - Phil - South32

 

First non tick and flick course I have ever done.  What an outstanding program.  Loved it - took in so much.

AREMT+ 2022 - Jason

 

Going into the experience I knew the EMT Plus course would be challenging, what I didn't expect was just how satisfied I'd feel at my accomplishment come the end of it. Charlie and his team were great mentors throughout the program, from the pre-course work to the onsite practicals; their support, knowledge and understanding of the topics were second to none. I left feeling confident in my knowledge and capable of using the skills I'd learnt. I'd highly recommend this course to anyone looking to add to their skill base.

Cindy Sesak, Senior Mine Geologist - Minjar Gold Pajingo Operation, 2021.


This Cert IV EMT training course has been very intense however, it has also been the best practically valibating course I've been on. The trainers have vast and relevant knowledge, the ability to explain clearly to make understanding an easy task.

G Garley, GKD Training, 2016.


This is a tough course. It takes considerable self discipline and commitment to complete the course. The First Response Australia trainers are highly skilled and provide an excellent training environment. I would highly recommend this course to anyone wishing to further their skils in emergency management. It has been a pleasure to complete this course.

T Armstrong, 2016.



Since completing both the Cert IV in EMR and the upgrade to the Cert IV in Healthcare Ambulance with First Response, I have been able to apply the skills I have acquired and it has greatly improved my employability with private companies that provide medical coverage for industry based work and events. The training I received from Charles during our EMT training with hands on practical scenarios based on possible real life scenarios were essential in enabling me to identify and treat a range of different medical emergencies such as a Heart Attack, Drug Abuse, Intoxication & Seizure, one example was during a 5 day coverage as a sports trainer for the university games, I recognised a serious heat related incident, and was able to assist the Paramedic in setting up IV fluids and also was asked to remove the cannular which were all skills learned in the EMT course. For a person wanting to get a good knowledge and practical skills as a medic I highly recommend First Response and their trainers in giving a high level of education in this field, the Cert IV in EMT and subsequent upgrade to the Cert IV in Healthcare Ambulance are essential courses to pursue a career as a medic and career path to becoming a paramedic. Thanks to all the staff for making my journey a positive one and enabling me the platform to continue my practice and studies as a medic.

D Romaine, 2015


I found the training to be delivered to a high standard that allowed me to challenge myself and develop new skills. The training teams knowledge and skills are of an extremely high standard and they willingly assist all students with their professional development.

D Cook, Director, Aroxa Mining, 2016


Wow - cram-packed course that well exceeded all expectations. I'll be back and I'll be recommending this course and all first aid courses First Response delivers to my professional colleagues and students.

Zachery, Trainer, Alliance Safety Group, 2014


As one who may go for long periods without having to use these skills such refreshers are vital to maintaining an ability to correctly work as an EMT.

M Aichino, Cairns, 2014.


I have completed my Certificate IV EMT course with FRA in 2008 and have returned annually to undergo professional training with the PHERT courses.  I have also undergone other training in that time like Low Voltage Rescue, Certificate III in Emergency Medical Care.  I have also participated as a Co-Provider for FRA to deliver Apply First Aid, CPR, LVR courses at my work site.  I have always found the staff at FRA very professional, knowledgeable and always willing to take time out to help.  Love the scenarios guys. 

Tony, Safety & Training Officer, Snow Peak Mining, 2014


As I work with a range of individuals, teams and demographics in my works and concerning their work in locations and situations all over Australia, I find the experience and depth of knowledge of the FRA Trainers provides a real, current and relevant training experience.  FRA's experience with remote area mine sites is also particularly instructive for me in considering similar locations. 

Troy, Health, Safety & Environment Coordinator, 2014


After completing the EMT-B Certificate 5 years ago, it was a great opportunity to refresh skills, and learn new techniques in the pre-hospital setting.  The training was delivered as promised - practical based workshops to scenarios.  The trainers' added value to presentations by focusing on real time incidents/events which provided context for the participants.  The other great aspect was having exposure to EMTs in the class to learn the finer points of medical care through their experience overall, a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding 3 days. 

Shane, International & Executive Security Manager, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, 2014


FRA always provide a great training environment by using a good range of the latest equipment and training methods to ensure a variety of learning techniques for the students.  Have used FRA many times in the past and will continue to use them in the future with upgraded training packages. 

Garry, Safety & Emergency Response Coordinator, Evolution Mining, 2014


As always - great re-affirmation of skills at a high level. FRA remain the most relevant and advanced training providers. 

J Gersbach, Emergency Response & Safety Coordinator, July 2014


Always find these courses extremely valuable as real-life medical experiences are quite limited in my industry. Because the instructors are aware of this, they always ensure that we gain diverse medical experience in these PHERT courses. First time doing course with the infamous Max - very well run and heaps of fun! 

A Buls, Operations Manager, Whitewater Rafting, July 2014


I can't thank you guys enough for the support, time, patients & knowledge you all have given me. I have learnt so much in these 3 days and would come back and trin with you guys again. It has been a great eye opener! The breaks & starting /finishing times were appropriate. 

S Webster, Student Nurse, July 2014


The course improved my current knowledge on patient handling & transporting & elaborated on other methods & processes. Overall, I found it beneficial to complete the bridging course to Health Care (Ambulance). 

J Nott, Emergency Response Coordinator/Medic, Evolution Mining, 2014


The training provided by First Response far exceeded expectations. Charlie and his team always conducted themselves in the most professional manner. I strongly recommend this course to anyone considering the EMT package and am confident in saying the training provided is all of the highest caliber and you won't find better in Australia. 

T Murray, October 2014


I really was surprised by the structure and the training model as it was very professional and allowed for a large volume of subject matter to be taught in a short time frame. 

A Leonardi, October 2014


I received excellent cutting edge training throughout the course, learning the most up to date and relevnt procedures needed to save lives. The staff were very knowledgeable and willing to pass on their knowledge. Not only did I learn a lot but I also had fun. Cheers FRA Team. 

J Magolan, October 2014


A great experience, great course, really recommend to get hands on training. 

J Miron, Emergency Response, October 2014


Excellent course, well presented and executed. The practical scenarios were invaluable experience and realistic. Fabulous trainers, very knowledgable. I highly recommend this program. Thank you. 

L Sterling, ieMR Training Manager, Qld Health, November 2014


This course has by far the best lecturer's of any course that I have undertaken.

G. Wallace, December 2014.


The trainers have a thorough knowledge of advanced medical techniques and include the latest in training equipment. A very highly rated training facility.

K Kingston, Cairns, December 2014.


This was a pleasure to see quality training with life experience's used to validate scenario base learning program. Would recommend this training as a benchmark for industry EMt's.

M. Eckhardt, Cairns, December 2014.


Best indepth first aid training going around. Cheers.

S Wilson, Quicksilver, December 2014.


The course was very enjoyable with lots of new technology and practices. Way ahead of all other 1st Aid & Medical training organisations.

B. Dillon, Kaefer Integrated Services, December 2014.


I have been attending EMT Courses on a yearly basis for 11 years and am still overwhelmed with the continuous level of professional knowledge displayed by the staff.

W Tipping, Santos GLNG, December 2014.


Other work mates have repeatedly told me "Do the PHERT course with Charlie Makray. It is awesome". Well I did that course and for once they were right. 'If you need quality and I mean QUALITY go to 1st Response Australia. You will not be disappointed. Thank you 1st Response Australia'.

R O'Reilly, Airservices - Cairns Airport, March 2015.


I have dealt with RTO's for a number of years and have been involved in emergency response in the mining industry over a long period. In all those years I have found no other RTO that provides training that is as realistic and aimed at what actually occurs in the workplace.

M Proud, Millennium Minerals, March 2015.


Great facility, extremely knowledgeable trainers, top of the line equipment, very realistic scenarios, very supportive environment, I would recommend First Response Australia to anyone who is serious about working in the EMT field.

J Montet, Quicksilver - Port Douglas, March 2015.


As a UK registered Paramedic with 20 years experience, I found this to be an excellent emergency skills refresher course. Its rare to find a course this up to date on current best practise using the latest equipment on the market.

J Neville, International SOS Mongolia, March 2015.

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