Local Camira resident Peter Rundle has called an end to his St John Ambulance (Qld) voluntary career, after giving 23 years of service to the organisation.
Peter joined St John Ambulance (Qld) in the early nineties when he was appointed the first aid officer at his workplace.
“When I became the workplace first aider, I felt I wasn’t getting enough practical experience to feel confident providing first aid, so I joined St John (Qld),” he said.
Peter developed a love for first aid and completed more than 7,000 voluntary hours in his many positions in St John (Qld) including Superintendent, Duty Coordinator, Trainee Officer and Divisional Officer for Cadets.
“I soon discovered my true calling in life was teaching Cadets; it has been my honour to train two generations of cadets, who are now confident and competent first aiders,” Peter said.
The veteran St John volunteer received several high accolades in his career, including a Priory Vote of Thanks, Commissioner’s Commendation and a Silver Commendation. Peter has trained more than 2,000 cadets since joining and delivered first aid assistance to in excess of 5,000 casualties.
“My greatest pleasure has been watching young Cadets grow into adults, and see them become nurses, doctors, paramedics and surgeons,” he said.
When asked what he would say to other people interested in joining St John, Peter said you should be prepared to learn new things, even if you think you already know a lot.
“Being a St John volunteer has so much to offer a person, and I’ve enjoyed so many great experiences - I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending others sign up,” he said.
Peter has seen the benefits of the Cadet program firsthand, having been instrumental in mentoring Cadets to develop into confident young adults with strong leadership skills.
“I will miss the cadets the most – they teach me as much as I teach them,” Peter said.
If you are interested in joining St John Ambulance (Qld), volunteers are accepted from the age of eight years of age. The Western Suburbs Division boasts more than 45 members and attends local fetes, carnivals, BMX races as well as provides assistance to evacuation centres in times of disaster. If you are interested in joining, call Western Suburbs Division on 0438 686 952 or email westernsuburbs@stjohnqld.com.au.
Photo ops and interviews are available upon request.
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Media contact: Angela Armstrong on (07) 3253 0579 or 0498 555 343.