From treating elite athletes through to applying band-aids for spectators, Charles Sturt University (CSU) paramedic students put their training to good use at the recent Australian Ironman in Port Macquarie.

More than 50  Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic) students and two lecturers from CSU's School of Biomedical Sciences volunteered to be medical responders for the event, the third year in a row the University has been involved.

The CSU team provided more than 440 hours of support, working with other volunteers including doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, along with other medical and nursing students.

Senior lecturer in paramedic practice Mr Joe Acker said it was an opportunity for students to hone their skills while supporting a community event.

"Our students filled a variety of medical roles during the Ironman, from providing first aid for spectators and riding in ambulances to take care of athletes on the course, to working in the medical tent at the finish line, all of the roles made the community and the event safer," he said.

"It's an opportunity for our students to work with the inter-professional medical team of doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and clerical staff at a world-class event. This creates an amazing learning environment that helps develop their clinical and communication skills in an authentic learning environment."

The CSU SimAmbulance was at the Port Macquarie Town Green and Mr Acker said students provided free first aid to spectators.

"Fortunately, most of the work was applying band-aids and letting children and future paramedic students see the inside of the ambulance," he said.

First year paramedic student Mr Daniel Steinbeck said, "The opportunity to volunteer for the Ironman was an amazing experience".

"It allowed me to apply my clinical knowledge in a practical setting and connect with the community in such a positive way. It was inspiring to see the dedication of not only the athletes but the other volunteers," he said.

For another first year paramedic student Ms Nadine O'Dowd, the experience offered an insight into medical treatment for the athletes.

"It was a rare chance to meet some of these amazing and inspiring athletes and share in the excitement and energy of the event, an opportunity I thought I would not have had until completing my degree and commencing work," said Ms O'Dowd.

The Toyota Ironman Australia was held at Port Macquarie on Sunday 3 May 2015.