There was an air of great excitement at Diggers Miranda RSL as 14 St John Ambulance (NSW) recruits enrolled to become part of the St John family.
The recruits aged from eight to fifteen spent the last three school terms learning vital first aid skills which greatly improved their confidence and adds real value to the local community.
What made the gathering so special is that it's been ten years since the last group of cadets came through the St John program in Sutherland Shire.
"The organisation has a long history in the Sutherland Shire and has made such a significant contribution over many years providing first aid support at public events, undertaking public demonstrations and training young people within our schools, equipping them with vital lifesaving skills," Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce said.
A weekly training program took the students on a personal journey of transformation from being reluctant to demonstrate the first aid they had learned to becoming confident young cadets keen to demonstrate tasks each week, expanding their knowledge and knowing "we can do it."
Eric Tam, acting officer in charge of St John NSW, Sutherland Combined Division said, "This was a way to give the kids of the shire an opportunity to learn, help the community, be part of a great organisation and grow both in skill and character."
Dressed in their black and white uniforms, the cadets solemnly make their promise on December 17 to be helpful, caring and respectful members of St John Ambulance and accepted their epaulettes presented by the officer and their parents to become part of the St John family.
"This is an invaluable learning experience and we are so appreciative to be apart of such a wonderful community", a proud parent said in a recent survey
Not only have the kids learnt first aid each week, both Juniors and Cadets were given opportunities to go on duty under the supervision of adult members to see the real action at suitable events.
The initial event was the Sutherland to Surf where St John had a post at the finish line at Cronulla. The kids watched and learnt how to treat patients, bringing first aid supplies to assist and be fully involved in an event.
"The change within the young members was remarkable and I am so proud of their achievements," said Katelyn Peoples, Cadet Officer at Sutherland Combined Division
St John Ambulance (NSW) has been part of the Sutherland Shire for over five decades.
Members can be identified by their green uniforms at local sporting events, Sydney to Gong bike ride or some bigger well known event like The Royal Easter Show at Sydney Olympic Park just to name a few. You may even have met some members when you or your children needed first aid.
There were a number of awards presented to our volunteer adult members on the night and the Mayor said "I also congratulate the adults who have been presented awards for all of your volunteer hours. Our community greatly appreciate your service."
For more information on how to be a volunteer with St John NSW, visit https://www.stjohnnsw.com.au/volunteer
