St John volunteers recognised
The selfless work of St John volunteers was recognised at a grand ceremony in Auckland.
More than 600 people gathered at St Patricks Cathedral to celebrate the efforts of 58 St John Volunteers from around the country.
They included six volunteers from Northland; Barbara Lock, ex Kaikohe, John Bain from Whangarei, Roslyn Smith from Kerikeri, Diane Smith from Russell and Susan Dunn and Campbell Sutherland from Kaikohe.
All were invested into ‘‘the most venerable order of the hospital of St John’’ by Sir Jerry Mateparae on July 2.
Sutherland says the ceremony was fabulous.
‘‘Initially you have the inspection of cadets outside the cathedral then the procession comes in with the crosses and flags and music,’’ he says.
‘‘It’s in recognition of the work done by these people.
‘‘It’s nice to be acknowledged.’’ Volunteers’ work recognised varies from fundraising to helping out in the numerous op shops.
Sutherland, a former teacher, has been a volunteer for over 14 years, including 10 years on the front line driving ambulances and helping patients.
He is now helping out at the St John op shop in Kaikohe.
‘‘You’re working with members of the community and that’s rewarding in itself.’’