Giving back to the community has been a commitment spanning more than 48 years for Idalia resident Dr Angus McDonell, who recently received the highest honour in St John of a promotion to Knight of Grace in the Most Venerable Order of St John.
Angus received the prestigious award from The Governor of Queensland, Mr Paul de Jersey AC KStJ in recognition of his continuous and highly valued volunteer work with St John Ambulance (Qld).
Angus joined St John Ambulance at 10 years of age, and has developed a passion and love for first aid spanning almost half a century.
“My dad suggested I join St John to gain skills and experience that would provide lifelong skills,” Angus said.
“The mateship has provided me with much happiness and I truly feel like we make a difference. I feel so much pride when I put my St John uniform,” he said.
Angus’ involvement with St John began as a Cadet in 1967; he has held positions at local, regional and state levels across Victoria and Queensland. He has been a St John trainer for more than 40 years and has contributed to first aid publications used nationwide. His professional qualifications as a medical practitioner and author of scholarly articles serve as an invaluable asset to St John and the volunteers he mentors. Angus also currently serves as the Commissioner, and oversees all professional development, disaster activations and incidents in Queensland
St John (Qld) CEO Noel Gillard said Angus is an inspiration to all Queenslanders, and highlights the significant contribution volunteers can make to the community.
“Angus has demonstrated an outstanding commitment and ability to serve the community. He has dedicated more than 40 years of his life to the voluntary service of St John (Qld), both as a volunteer first aider, mentor, health care professional and friend,” Noel said.
“We are extremely proud to have a devoted volunteer such as Angus. His passion to keep the community safe and his commitment to improving first aid techniques are invaluable assets to the St John family and to the community he serves,” he said.
For more than 129 years, communities across Queensland have benefited from the charitable services St John volunteers such as Angus provide. If you are interested in becoming a St John (Qld) volunteer and helping your community, please visit www.stjohnqld.com.au or call 1300 ST JOHN (78 5646).
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Photo: St John Ambulance (Qld) Commissioner Angus McDonell BM received a promotion to Knight of Grace in the Order of St John from The Governor of Queensland, Mr Paul de Jersey AO KStJ.