Two Logan City Council staff members have been recognised with the Australian Resuscitation Club Medal for helping save a man’s life last year.
Aaron Sprigg and Mary Joy were honoured for successfully resuscitating Rajko Celic – a local church pastor – after he went into cardiac arrest whilst playing basketball at Mount Warren Sports and Fitness Centre.
Logan mayor Jon Raven praised the staff members for their professionalism and commitment to community safety.
“Aaron and Mary saved a life. Their quick-thinking and selfless actions have meant a family, and our community, have avoided what would have been a tragic loss,” he said.
“Moments like this highlight the importance of training and emergency preparedness.”
“Having up to date CPR and first aid skills is something we can all do.”
Alongside fellow court users, Mr Sprigg and Ms Joy were quick to start CPR, calling an ambulance first, then using a defibrillator.
Seven minutes later, paramedics from the Beenleigh Ambulance Station arrived.
Mr Sprigg said receiving the award was humbling.
“We were focused on doing what needed to be done in that moment,” he said.
“To be recognised like this is an honour, but the real reward is knowing someone went home to their family.”
Ms Joy said the event reinforced the importance of first aid and resuscitation training.
“This experience highlighted the importance of regular training and teamwork put into action, with every individual contributing to a positive outcome,” she said.
“I feel immense gratitude that I was able to be there when it mattered – both as a person and as a professional.”
The pair received medals from The Royal Life Saving Society Australia who acknowledged Mr Sprigg and Ms Joy’s calm response, clinical skills and decisive action during a critical medical emergency.
The medals were presented by Queensland Governor Jeanette Young on 3 February.
Image: Logan City Council staff, Aaron Sprigg and Mary Joy, with their Australian Resuscitation Club Medals.
