Australasian College of Paramedicine International Conference (ACPIC25)
ACPIC 2025 delivered a wide range of clinical and research sessions from experts and leaders in paramedicine. Hosted in Brisbane (September 2025) the program was designed to inspire, educate and broaden horizons.
Conference theme: Foundations to future: Advancing paramedicine
Her Impact: Paramedicine Power Talks
Her Impact is designed as a TED-style event featuring short, powerful talks by inspiring women in paramedicine. Each speaker will have 10 minutes to share reflections of their personal or professional experiences in paramedicine or perhaps outcomes of related research. These presentations will be followed by a 20 minute panel discussion.
This session served as a chance to connect, reflect, and elevate women’s voices.
Presenter biographies
Dr. Elizabeth Donnelly - Dr. Elizabeth Donnelly holds a PhD in Social Work, a Master of Social Work (MSW), and Master of Public Health (MPH). Dr. Donnelly is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and a Scientist with the McNally Project for Paramedicine Research. Dr. Donnelly’s research efforts center around understanding and improving workforce health and wellbeing in paramedicine. Her research is driven by her experiences with front-line work; she has maintained certification as Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT) for over 25 years. More information is available at www.elizabethdonnelly.com
Dr Louise Reynolds - Dr Louise Reynolds is the Victorian Chief Paramedic Officer, Safer Care Victoria, Associate Professor in Paramedicine at ACU and Adjunct Professor, La Trobe University. She began her paramedicine career as a student paramedic with SA Ambulance Service before transitioning into research and academic roles. Louise was Australia’s first female paramedic to hold a doctoral degree, and she has extensive educational experience in vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs across Australia, the UK, and South-East Asia. Louise’s research focuses on paramedicine workplace safety and has been co-editor of Understanding the Australian Health Care System five times and is co-author of the paramedicine chapter. Louise is actively involved in professional bodies such as the Australasian Council of Paramedicine Deans and the Australasian College of Paramedicine.
Meg Parr - Meg is a paramedic with Hato Hone St John, based in Marlborough at the top of New Zealand’s South Island. She has previously served as a medic in the New Zealand Army and worked in regional hospitals and outreach clinics in Tanzania. With a strong interest in sports medicine, Meg has supported major events including the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Ironman 70.3 World Championships. Outside of work, she is a dedicated long-distance triathlete and advocate for women’s health, living with her wife and two Australian Shepherds.
Prue Snedden - Prue Snedden is a Critical Care Flight Paramedic who loves supporting patients, colleagues, and learners, with a particular focus on rural, remote work and retrievals. Outside of clinical shifts and teaching, she balances work across two states, finds calm in the ocean, inspiration in music, and joy in cheesecake. Her approach to work blends curiosity, purpose, and a touch of fun, showing that even serious work can be meaningful and enjoyable.
Moderator: Alisha McFarlane, Member Engagement Manager, Australasian College of Paramedicine