Speeches
Saturday, 19 October 2024
2024 St John Ambulance SA Investiture and Awards Day
Thank you Uncle Mickey for your gracious welcome to country.
Rod, and I as Deputy Prior and Dame of the Order of St John, are delighted to welcome you to the grounds of Government House, the oldest Government House in Australia.
We were also pleased to do so in June for the Investiture Ceremony.
As we have just seen, the Robed Procession and Ceremonial Flag Parties give circumstance to the rich traditions of St John.
Today we honour those who exemplify the service which is at the heart of this respected organisation.
For nearly 140 years in South Australia, St John volunteers have been a familiar sight at myriad events: Carols by Candlelight, the Royal Adelaide Show, the LIV Golf, the footy, music festivals, school sports days, farmers markets, and here at Government House on public Open Days.
The uniform is a reassuring sight, giving hope that help is nearby if needed.
You are also there when our most vulnerable need non-emergency transport to health services when they can’t travel independently or need care during the journey.
I sincerely thank those volunteers who give of themselves who are on hand no matter the weather to support the community.
As Rod and I travel the State, we find that innate sense of service widespread. It makes us proud to be part of such a community; one where volunteers are building a resilient place to live and work.
On a personal note, earlier this year Rod and I refreshed our first aid knowledge by undertaking a St John course and were grateful that the instructors were patient, clearly demonstrated what we had to do and gently guided us when they needed to.
Not long after, the MC at a Sporting Car Club dinner asked how many guests had a current first aid qualification.
Rod and I were pleased to be able to raise our hands – and were somewhat relieved no assistance was required during the course of the evening.
I urge and encourage more people to become first aid trained, it is one of the most important skills in life and you never know when you will need to draw on it.
After all, we all need to make first aid part of our lives and I thank St John Ambulance for pursuing that goal.
I thank the board and staff for their leadership in ensuring that St John remains relevant and adaptable.
This year, more than 33,000 volunteer event duty hours were contributed at more than 1,500 events.
Behind the scenes, 20,000 logistical support hours were provided.
Almost 1,000 volunteers were there to support the South Australian Community.
While these statistics are impressive, the story of St John is the commitment, dedication and care provided by those who are the St John family.
Today we honour those who have given significant long service to St John.
Thank you for doing so. You exemplify dedication, selflessness, and compassion for others.
Congratulations, and I look forward to celebrating St John’s 140 years of service in South Australia next year.