Dimboola-based MICA Paramedic Sandy Kahn is today celebrating after being awarded the National Service Medal for 35 years of contributing to his community.

Sandy has served in the military, police force and ambulance service all over Australia, beginning as an Administrative Clerk with the Army in 1973. This role saw him working across Australia, including in Townsville, Canberra, Melbourne and Adelaide.

"We never unpacked," Sandy said.

"I then moved on to the Ambulance Service in Melbourne in 1982, I then spent almost two years as a Probationary Constable with Victoria Police, but returned to the Ambulance, where I have been for the past 24 years.

"It has been a very enjoyable 35 years, very stimulating. I am very grateful to have such a supportive family, and a very supportive team to work with."

Working at Dimboola, Sandy and the team average two call-outs a day, with most of these outside the Dimboola area.

"Its challenging and frustrating working in the country," Sandy said, "its most challenging when something has happened and we havent been able to get there in sufficient time, or when time is a factor in a patient being transported to a place to receive the right level of care.

"However, I do very much enjoy working here, and will be here for a few more years yet. Its too enjoyable to leave."

Sandy was recognised for his contribution with a morning tea with family, peers and colleagues. He is pictured, centre, with Dimboola Paramedic and Team Leader Ron Nooteboom, Acting Clinical Support Manager Julian Cofield, wife Jenny, and Grampians Regional Manager Greg Leach.