The St John NT Katherine Volunteer Division gathered earlier this week to celebrate 45 years of supporting the local community with pizza, cake, and certificates of service.
Attended by St John NT CEO Andrew Tombs, Director of Volunteers Mark Ferguson, and the division's enthusiastic youth members, certificates of appreciation were awarded to volunteers who have dedicated over 100 hours of service this financial year, in recognition of their outstanding commitment to the community.
The division was officially registered with St John on 17 May 1980, and with it the keys to the region's ambulance service were handed over by the Northern Territory Government.
St John NT Director of Volunteers Mark Ferguson said that 45 years is an incredible milestone, and a testament to the dedication and resilience of the St John NT volunteers.
"Since 1980, St John NT volunteers in Katherine have been at the heart of emergency response, first aid education, and community events,” Mr Ferguson said.
"The division has played a critical role in delivering first aid and community support for decades, and their service continues to inspire us all."
St John NT CEO Andrew Tombs praised the longstanding commitment of the division, adding: “The strength of St John lies in its people, and the Katherine Division exemplifies that strength”.
"Six members were presented with certificates for dedicating more than 100 hours of volunteer service this year. The passion and commitment throughout this division is incredible," Mr Tombs said.
Co-Superintendents of the St John NT Katherine Division, Ashlee Elton and Steve Rudder, reflected on the occasion with pride and appreciation.
“Celebrating 45 years is really about honouring the people behind the uniform, both past and present. Every volunteer brings something unique, and together we've created a strong, supportive culture." Ms Elton said.
"Seeing our younger members move through the ranks and continue to develop their skills reminds us all that the spirit of volunteering is alive and well here in Katherine," Mr Rudder said.
To learn more about volunteering with St John NT, head to www.stjohnnt.org.au/volunteers
