Michael Wells is born and bred in Werribee. The paramedic balances time with his young family and his role as captain of the local fire brigade. He speaks with Adem Saban
How long have you been in Werribee?
I was born and bred here. I’m 41-years-old now. I’ve left a few times over the years but I always come back. I went to school at Werribee Primary School, then to Werribee High School. Went off to Geelong to study nursing at Deakin.
What’s changed over the years?
What hasn’t changed is probably more the point. I grew up on a market garden – it was a small country town. Werribee used to close down at 6pm. Nowadays it’s connected to Melbourne by lights. It’s the city that never sleeps. We have a huge population, bigger hospital, more infrastructure, plenty of schools.
What do you love most about the town?
It’s very familiar to me. It’s a positive community, one that’s moving forward as a community. To be a part of the forward planning for our future – our children’s future – is very exciting. It’s also a reasonably safe place with good schools, great education; healthcare is getting better.
What do you do for work?
I’m a MICA flight paramedic out of Essendon Airport. I’ve been in the ambulance service for about 20 years.
You’re captain of the Werribee Fire Brigade?
I started with the brigade when I was around 13 or 14 as part of the junior brigade. My family has been involved since before I was around. My dad, Darryl, is a former captain of the brigade. As a kid, the station was my second home.
What do you love most about being involved in the brigade?
Operationally, you’ve got a great bunch of people doing a fantastic job. That also transcends into a great social side. Internally, the friendships and mateship that you develop, the trust that you have in each other in the situations you’re faced with. Externally, you’re out assisting people in what could be their worst possible moment.
What do you do with your spare time?
I’m busy at home with the kids when my wife is at work. I wish I had more time to focus on outdoor pursuits, like fishing, four-wheel driving. I’ve also picked up a job in Kokoda once or twice a year as a guide.
