St John Ambulance Victoria hosted a special morning tea on Friday, July 11 to farewell and thank Gladstone Park local Alan Marshall for his 52 years of service.
Mr Marshall first volunteered for St John in 1972, joining his wife who was a member of the Broadmeadows unit.
“The Broadmeadows unit had a rescue section and special rescue vehicle prior to the commencement of the State Emergency Service. There was additional training in cliff rescue disaster callouts and mine rescue and weekend camps to assist in the teamwork required to be accredited,“ Mr Marshall explained.
“It is great fun when in the thick of the action.“
He said over his half century with St John the organisation had evolved and kept offering new challenges which kept his interest alive.
His involvement progressed through the ranks from divisional and regional roles to state appointments. He was eventually appointed to the St John Board in Victoria.
At state headquarters Mr Marshall managed the emergency management section, leading a dedicated team that supports the state in times of emergency.
Marshall said he would encourage more people to get involved with St John for the training and camaraderie.
“St John teaches management skills, first aid and training at a high level and recognised accreditation that is regularly followed up and supported.
“You can join St John over a wide age group in your life and take it up when you are ready for a change or to be part of a team seen at various events around the state.”
