Mansfield has recently welcomed two new graduate paramedics, part of a group of 59 recruits who have joined Ambulance Victoria this month.

The graduates have completed their university studies and a four-week induction program and are now undertaking supervised on-road placements at branches across the state.

In addition to Mansfield, nearby placements include Wodonga (3), Shepparton (2), Yarrawonga (2), Wangaratta (2), Benalla, Broadford, Kilmore, Cobram, Mooroopna and Numurkah.

The majority of the intake has been assigned to regional areas, with only 14 graduates joining metropolitan Melbourne branches.

Acting Premier and Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes met the new paramedics during a visit to the Ambulance Victoria Capability Hub in Sunshine last week.

“We’re recruiting more paramedics so all Victorians can get the lifesaving care they need, when they need it most,” she said.

Ambulance Victoria Chief Executive Officer Jordan Emery said the intake comes at a busy time for the health system.

“Working as a paramedic is an extraordinarily unique experience," he said.

"Very few jobs will have such a profound and deep impact on people’s lives.

“Demand on our crews is increasing, as usual, at this time of year and will likely remain heightened in the coming months as cases of the flu and other respiratory viruses stay high.”

Graduate paramedics will continue to work under supervision as they respond to emergency cases and develop their clinical skills in real-world settings.