Local boy Cody Logan's journey to becoming a paramedic is a testament to his unwavering determination, even in the face of personal tragedy and hardship

The first in his family to study at university, Cody had long dreamt of a career in the medical field and in 2019 enrolled in a Bachelor of Paramedicine at Charles Sturt University, Bathurst.

But Cody’s university career was far from easy, having to deal with the tragic passing of his father, a house fire at his family home here in Orange and a cancer diagnosis in the family. All this left him feeling mentally unwell and suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder.

But for the strong and resilient young man, it wasn’t enough to make him give up on his dreams.

“Never once did I consider quitting. I have always been so well supported by those around me that I never felt the need to quit,” Cody said.

“I knew that, although times were tough, they would get easier, and quitting definitely wasn’t going to make anything easier.”

The strong friendships he had made at university also helped to keep him grounded as he navigated his new course.

But university life and study also came with its stressors, both emotional and financial, Cody said.

That’s where the not-for-profit, Country Education Foundation stepped in to help. An organisation dedicated to helping young rural and regional Australians access further education and training, the Foundation provided both financial and emotional support for Cody.

“They are the greatest group of humans I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I am so grateful for the social, financial and emotional support they have provided me over the past three years. They were always there when I needed anything and never hesitated to lend a hand,” Cody said.

Recently graduated, Cody now works as a paramedic in Tasmania, but his education journey isn’t over yet.

“My ultimate goal is to study for a Doctorate of Medicine, allowing me to return to rural and remote Australia and provide essential medical services where they are severely lacking,” he concluded.