It's the new Muster M.A.S.H
A FULLY equipped and staffed field hospital will be one of the new-look safety features helping to make this year's Optus Gympie Music Muster one of the safest and most inclusive ever, according to chief James Dein.
"It's part of our approach to duty-of-care obligations," he said.
"We've engaged a specialist event care operation team, which will be able to provide emergency first-aid services.
"They will have a special emergency service doctor, an emergency nurse, an intensive care paramedic, four advanced care paramedics and two standard care paramedics.
"This will be in addition to the services of St John's Ambulance, who will operate a number of medical tents in the festival precinct.
"So we can look after you if you suffer anything from a scratch to a heart attack or a major accident.
"For serious cases, we will be able to revive people, maintain their condition and, if needed, there will also be a helipad for emergency evacuations if required.
"It will be a very safe place.
"We can revive you, keep you alive and medivac you from the site if necessary".
Mr Dein said field hospital was part of the event's duty of care and was the same standard that applied at other large events.
Muster medic Jess Jackling has been on-site since Friday, setting up the hospital.
So far, she has only had to treat a small number of cuts and bruises, but all is in readiness should an emergency arise as the crowds and pace of the event build up.
Ms Jackling has now returned to Brisbane and other paramedics will take over.
"We operate with St John's Ambulance, who handle more common and minor injuries and illnesses," she said. "We'll be providing 24-hour coverage of the festival. We'll be on call on an emergency number."
Mr Dein said the hospital would be able to treat serious cases including major accidents and heart conditions.
The hospital, another version of which was in operation last year, is run by firm Emergency Medics.
"We are a private company specialising in the co-ordination of event medical services," managing director Stephen Barnes said.
"As the largest provider in Queensland, we are committed to ensuring that your patrons receive the highest level of care."
The company provides services for events ranging from big games and concerts at Suncorp Stadium, major music festivals and even school sports days.
