The five award categories for first aid champion are junior under 12, youth under 18, school, community and workplace. 

St John Ambulance Victoria chief executive Gordon Botwright said the awards would emphasise how important it was for people to actively educate themselves with first aid skills.

“First aid training is always such an important skill to have, no matter what age you are, and we hope to acknowledge all age groups, workplaces, schools, community groups and of course our volunteers, without whom our work wouldn’t be possible,” he said.

“Last year alone, we trained over 187,901 Victorian school children and reached over 313,337 people across Victoria, including Stawell.

“It only takes one person to save a life. We think it is important these unsung heroes are acknowledged for their extraordinary acts of service.”

Nominations close on August 22.

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on September 7, which is also World First Aid day.