ST. JOHN AMBULANCE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23703, 10 January 1939, Page 2

ST. JOHN AMBULANCE

BRIGADE NOTES Amongst, the various institutions of a humanitarian nature which exist in the community, none perhaps is more respected than the Order of St. John, which, by means of its two branches—the St. John Ambulance Association and the St. John Ambulance Brigade—carries out work beneficial to all classes, of society. The efforts of the order are generally recognised and encouraged, and satisfactory advance is being made. In reply to an inquiry as to the progress which had taken place in connection with the activities of the St. John Ambulance Brigade during the year 1938, Colonel G. Barclay, Chief Commissioner for the Dominion, recently stated that the work had everywhere advanced. Twenty-four new divisions had been formed during the year, thus extending operations into several districts which had hitherto • , *'en untapped, and providing first-aid workers who would be ready to give their services whenever required. The numerical strength had shown a very satisfactory advance, and although the returns for the vear were not yet completed,. it- was known that there had been a considerable increase in the number of cases of first-aid attended. The patrolling of the main highways upon the occasion of important events had been extended, and had been highly commended by the motoring and other authorities, while the establishment of first-aid posts on roads, beaches, and other pleasure resorts had continued to receive attention. Classes of instruction in Air Raid Precautions had again been carried out in several centres, and a number of persons had qualified themselves. It is anticipated that during 1939 this work will be further extended. The demands for the services of members of the brigade .at sports and other fixtures continued to increase, and although it was possible to supply the personnel required, the time of members was very fully taxed, and an appeal was being made for recruits; with an increased membership it would be possible to lighten the calls now made upon the individuals. The popularity of the cadet branch of the organisation had not waned, and was limited only by the number of officers and other instructors available. The services of any persons interested in the youth movement would be gladly welcomed. A number of senior cadets had transferred to the adult divisions, thus providing men and women trained and qualified to carry on the work. A number of cadets had during the year qualified for the Grand Prior’s Badge, a highly valued distinction in the brigade. The brigade is at present organising to carry out the desire of the Minister of Education (Mr P. Fraser), and assist in the instruction of first-aid in schools during the month of February,

Colonel Barclay paid a high tribute to the unselfish services rendered by members of the brigade and especially commended the work of the medical officers, who, often at much inconvenience, carried out their instructional work. No rewardfor individual service was ‘asked for by brigadesmen or women or would be accepted. The members felt that their reward was in the satisfaction of having been able to help in time of need.