Flinders University welcomes Associate Professor Andrew Makkink as the new Head of Paramedicine, bringing a wealth of experience, insight and vision to one of Australia’s fastest-evolving healthcare disciplines.

Associate Professor Makkink’s path into paramedicine was anything but conventional. After nearly a decade in the mining industry as a qualified mine surveyor, he made the bold decision to leave it behind and pursue his passion for healthcare.

“Despite having exhausted my financial resources during my studies, it was an amazing decision — one that I remain convinced was the right one,” he reflects.

Now, as he steps into his role at Flinders, Associate Professor Makkink is excited to shape the future of the Paramedicine Program. “Paramedicine is a young and evolving profession,” he says. “That brings great opportunity — not just to respond to today’s patient needs, but to expand our reach and impact as a profession.”

He envisions expanding the Flinders program through increased research, postgraduate training, and greater interprofessional collaboration, all while maintaining strong community engagement.

For Associate Professor Makkink, joining Flinders was the right move at the right time. “Flinders offered an opportunity for growth at a world-class university in a beautiful city,” he says. “The supportive environment and forward-looking ethos here really resonates with me.”

Simulation and hands-on training will remain key pillars of the curriculum under Associate Professor Makkink’s leadership. “As a simulationist at heart, I believe simulation must be deliberate and carefully mapped to learning outcomes,” he explains. “It’s essential for preparing students for the realities of patient care.”

But it’s not all academic. Associate Professor Makkink is deeply invested in supporting students, not only as future clinicians, but also by acknowledging the emotional realities of the profession. “It’s not just about skills and knowledge,” he says. “It’s about helping students build resilience, manage stress, and care for themselves — because they can’t care for others if they’re running on empty.”

He sees Flinders as a university deeply connected to its community — one where ambitious ideas can grow and make a real difference.

“I’m excited to be part of an institution that’s committed to improving healthcare through education, research and collaboration.”

In his downtime, Associate Professor Makkink enjoys running through Adelaide’s parklands, tending to his garden, and spending time with his family and their pets. “Settling in here has been easy — it’s a city that welcomes you, and a university that makes you want to get involved. I’ve felt supported from day one.”