Rosalee a triple zero hero after nan’s trip
A short walk for a Drouin woman recovering from surgery almost ended in disaster for Dawn Maddock and her granddaughter Rosalee Tomisic in January last year.
Rosalee, who was only 10 at the time, had the foresight to ring the emergency line 000 when her nan tripped on a stone.
Dawn was bleeding profusely for a cut on her forehead.
Quick thinking Rosalee ran into the house and rang 000 for an ambulance. Even though Rosalee was panicking for her nan she was able to compose herself to describe what had happened, her address and her nan’s condition.
The ESTA operator was able to instruct Rosalee to get a towel and apply pressure to the wound and give other calming advice.
After the ambulance arrived Dawn was taken to hospital for observation.
The ESTA operator who took the call nominated Rosalee for a Junior Triple Zero Hero Award.
Rosalee received the award last month from Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes.
Rosalee said she was grateful for the support she received from the ESTA operator.
When asked how she knew to call 000, she cheekily replied that she had seen it on television. “My mother allows me to watch so little television, but she didn’t realise that one day it would help me save her mother’s life.”
Rosalee’s mother Jenny said she was proud of her daughter’s quick thinking.
A total of five young Victorians aged between five and 13 have been named Junior Triple Zero Heroes for 2022 by the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) by calling Triple Zero.
A spokesperson at the presentation which was held in the Olympic Room at the MCG said the program rewarded children for their bravery during an emergency and helps spread the Triple Zero message. In a formal ceremony, each hero was presented with a badge and framed certificate.
“All our young heroes are an inspiration to us all – for showing composure and clear thinking at a critical time by dialling 000 and then working with ESTA’S dedicated call-takers to help save the life of a loved one.
“The awards highlight the importance of teaching children when and how to call Triple 000. This saves time and lives”, ESTA chief executive Stephen Leane said.
Ms Symes commended the young Victorians for their bravery under challenging circumstances with their loved ones.
“The courage these young people have shown in emergencies is outstanding. Their ability to remain calm and give vital life-saving support is amazing and deserves to be recognised.”