As Mace said above regarding his niece, whatever the wage, triple it.
+1.
Having had the honour to ride in the Fast Taxi a couple of times now, I can honestly say I would have paid triple the cost if it could have arrived even 30 seconds sooner.
I'm happy with the QLD scheme - as far as I'm concerned it should be rolled out nationally. I know that "user pays" has some benefits, but in cases like this it's simply reassuring not to have to consider cost when you're dialling 000. By that stage, you've already got enough on your mind.
re: wages - same goes for ER nurses and doctors. What they have to put up with every day of the week is crazy.
All the best Cruisindub - I hope it all works out for your good lady wife.
Thanks,
Matto