On Sunday 28 June, 72-year-old customer Bob Launders collapsed after suffering a critical heart event while visiting the site. He was found unconscious, unresponsive and not breathing. Staff immediately called triple zero and began CPR while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
Leading Hand Tyla Ralphs coordinated the emergency response, calling 000, relaying information to emergency services and directing first responders to the scene.
Meanwhile, team member Matt Webster performed chest compressions continuously while Sharon Bagley administered rescue breaths until paramedics arrived and took over care.
According to an update by family provided to the team, Bob survived the cardiac event thanks to the quick actions taken by staff on site.
Tyla said the team's training and instinct to help took over in the critical moments following the collapse.
"I heard a customer calling out that there was an emergency. When we realised the gentleman wasn't breathing, we immediately called 000 and began CPR until paramedics arrived. Later, we were relieved to learn that he was responsive and sitting up."
Sharon said learning of Bob's recovery was an emotional moment for everyone involved.
"The next day I spoke with his partner, who told me hospital staff said he was only alive because of our timely actions. Knowing Bob is alive and doing well means the world to us."
Matt said he simply focused on helping in a difficult situation.
"When Tyla called for assistance, I immediately started CPR and continued chest compressions until paramedics arrived and took over."
Resource Recovery Australia Site Manager Toby Welsh said the response demonstrated the professionalism and care of the Tea Gardens team.
"The team acted quickly, decisively and worked together under incredibly stressful circumstances. I'm incredibly proud of how they responded."
Resource Recovery Australia General Manager Matt Curtis said the incident highlighted the importance of first aid training.
"What Tyla, Matt and Sharon did that day is extraordinary. Their calm response and willingness to step forward in a critical moment helped save a life. We are immensely proud of them and grateful that Bob is here today because of their actions."
Bob has given permission for his story to be shared and expressed his gratitude to the team whose quick thinking and first aid training saved his life.
Attached image: Bob Launders and Sue Bailey at the Tea Gardens Waste Management Centre
About us:
Resource Recovery Australia (RRA) is an Aboriginal-led not-for-profit social enterprise and registered charity that is operating across Australia to transform the way we treat waste.
Our #WASTE2WAGES model maximises social, environmental and community outcomes by employing people experiencing barriers to work while diverting waste from landfill for reuse and recycling. RRA operates in VIC, NSW, QLD and NT.
Contact details:
Aleta Sheil
Marketing and Communications Specialist
m: 0412 027788
[email protected]
