Physiotherapist Kylie Dunn has returned home after deploying to Vanuatu with the Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT), where she provided critical medical support in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake.
With a strong background in allied health and prior clinical experience Royal Darwin Hospital, Kylie was inspired to join AUSMAT after seeing a call-out for allied health professionals.
"The whole process has been pretty amazing” she said. “AUSMAT is made up of senior clinicians who receive additional training and support to handle these types of situations."
The rehabilitation team played a vital role in supporting local hospital staff at the Vila Central Hospital (VCH).
Their role was to support local hospital staff, including those at Vila Central Hospital (VCH), in treating earthquake-related injuries and other urgent medical conditions.
"We worked on the ward treating post-operative patients, as well as in outpatient physiotherapy and fracture clinic,” Kylie explained.
“We saw a lot of trauma—fractures and breaks—but also strokes, heart attacks, and even neonatal cases.”
Despite the challenging environment, Kylie found the work deeply rewarding
“The patients are so strong and resilient, and they’re motivated to rehabilitate.
“The disaster had overwhelmed the local hospital’s capability, so AUSMAT was there to provide expertise and extra hands on the ground."
One of the most memorable aspects of Kylie’s deployment was working with patients and their families.
"In Vanuatu they live in family units, so there is always family by the bedside, helping and learning,” she said.
“To see their strength and resilience is incredibly humbling."
Deployments like this are not for everyone, as they can be physically and mentally demanding.
"It can be stressful. It’s often tropical, so it’s hot, the conditions can involve accommodation in tents and eating rations. But for anyone interested, you can apply anytime,” she said.
“I would encourage anyone who thinks they can handle austere conditions to consider it."
The deployment also marked a significant milestone –the first time a dedicated rehabilitation cell had been included in AUSMAT’s response, highlighting the growing recognition of rehabilitation as a crucial component of disaster recovery.
"Sometimes, it’s not just about immediate care but also about helping people regain their mobility and independence after injury."
For those interested in learning more about joining AUSMAT, opportunities are open year-round, and the need for skilled healthcare professionals continues to grow in times of crisis.