…so we had a quick chat with the lad to find out a bit more about his motivations, his experiences and what his plans are before his venture to the URBNSurf Wavepool in Melbourne with the Surfing Doctors.
Nationality
Australian
Current Position
Paramedic and third-year medical student, currently working with QAS in Brisbane. Balancing shifts on the road with the demands of medical school keeps things busy, but it also builds a strong foundation across both pre-hospital and clinical environments.
Education and Work Experience
Pat studied Paramedic Science at QUT and is now completing his medical degree through OUM. His experience extends beyond Australia, with time spent working on ski fields in New Zealand and volunteering in Papua New Guinea. Those stints added a layer of real-world exposure, from remote medicine to high-pressure response work in unpredictable conditions.
Medical Interests
Emergency and critical care stand out as natural fits, shaped by his time as a paramedic. For now, the focus stays broad, with an open approach to clinical rotations and internship opportunities. The plan is to let experience in different departments guide the long-term direction.
Local Surf Spots
The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast provide the regular fix, depending on conditions and time off.
Favourite Surf Destination
Yamba. Consistent, clean and always worth the trip.
Travel and Surf Experience
Surf travel has not been the main focus so far. Time in Papua New Guinea came before surfing really took hold, which feels like a missed opportunity in hindsight. More recently, a trip to Mauritius delivered a standout moment, with a few days at Tamarin Bay that left a lasting impression. That session alone helped build a growing list of destinations still to come.
Worst Surf Trip
Still to be experienced.
Best Thing About Surfing
The combination of exercise and time in the ocean. Simple, consistent and hard to beat.
Best Advice
Keep it simple. Head up, eyes down the line.
Favourite Surfer
John John Florence. World-class surfing, plus a lifestyle that includes a very good boat.
Current Boards
Firewire Dominator.
Final Word
Quick to point out that he is still finding his feet in the water, Pat approaches surfing the same way he approaches his career. Keep improving, stay consistent and enjoy the process along the way. ‘The people you meet along the journey are part of the reward.’
Instagram
@pat.taylor94
Read more: William Matthews is coming to the Melbourne Wavepool Conference