As organisations across the country grapple with declining volunteer numbers, St John NT is proudly bucking the trend, with volunteer engagement on the rise and a growing contribution to Territory communities.
This National Volunteer Week (19 to 25 May 2025), St John NT is celebrating its dedicated volunteers who are on track to log more than 20,000 hours of service this financial year, up from last year’s 15,000-hour total.
Based on Volunteering SA/NT’s estimated value of $58 per volunteer hour, this represents a contribution of more than $1.16million to the Northern Territory.
Mark Ferguson, St John NT Director of Volunteer Event Health Services, said that while the national narrative is about falling volunteer engagement, St John NT volunteers continue to step up.
“Volunteers are the heart of our organisation and a powerful force in connecting and supporting Territory communities,” Mr Ferguson said.
“We’re seeing strong growth in volunteer engagement thanks to the sense of purpose, connection, and opportunity that St John NT offers.”
This year’s National Volunteer Week theme, “Connecting Communities”, resonates strongly with St John NT’s volunteer mission: creating meaningful relationships, building skills, and ensuring the safety and resilience of the community.
Funded through its commercial activities, grants and generous donations, St John NT’s volunteer program provides free training, nationally recognised qualifications, and hands-on experience. Volunteers are equipped not just with skills, but with the confidence to lead, respond, and care when it matters most.
Makaylia Ravlich, St John NT’s Territory Youth Officer, first joined the organisation as a youth member at 11 years old.
“My involvement with St John as a young person sparked my passion for contributing to the community,” Mrs Ravlich said.
“Now I get to give back to the same program that shaped me, using the skills I’ve gained to support both my St John family and the wider Territory community.”
St John NT volunteers are a vital presence at over 600 events annually. Their work ranges from treating minor injuries to performing lifesaving emergency care, helping to ensure that events run safely and successfully.
From remote races to major festivals, they have contributed to the success of events including BASSINTHEGRASS, Darwin V8 Supercars, Finke Desert Race, and hundreds of local sporting and cultural events.
St John NT’s youth and adult volunteer programs empower individuals to be the difference by stepping up, supporting others, and making a real impact in their communities.
Anyone looking to give back, learn new skills, or find their sense of purpose can learn more about volunteering with St John NT at stjohnnt.org.au.
ENDS.
Photo credit: North Australia Media
