ST. JOHN AMBULANCE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26028, 17 December 1945, Page 3

ST. JOHN AMBULANCE

MEETING OF EXECUTIVE The last meeting for the year of the executive of the St. John Ambulance Association was held at headquarters on Thursday evening last. Mr H. L. Paterson presided, and there were also present—Mr A. McHutchon, Dr Ealconer, Mr E. Griffen, Mrs S. G. McDonald, and Mrs S. Perrett. The ambulance transport returns were as follows:—September: Calls, 286; mileage travelled, 2492. October: Calls, 265; mileage, 1961. November: Calls, 291; mileage, 2157. Sixty-nine accident calls were promptly attended during the period. Work in the Schools Mr W. G. Burns, the association's first aid organiser in the schools, attended the meeting, and gave a comprehensive report on the work carried on during the past year. Considerable interest, he said, had been aroused in the work, which had made substantial progress. Twenty-six schools were now working under the scheme, and approximately 2000 pupils had received instruction during the year. A total of 546 pupils had been examined in the work, and of these 489 were successful in gaining certificates —a pass percentage of 91. This reflected great credit on those responsible for the teaching. Various suggestions for the extension and improvement of the work in the coming year were discussed. It was reported that senior first aid classes were held at headquarters, and also at Roxburgh, Alexandra, Queenstown and Arrowtbwn. A class had also been held for members of the police force. Twenty-three members were successful in obtaining certificates. Financial Statement The financial statement for October and November showed a substantial balance in hand, largely as a result of the very gratifying amount brought in from the street day appeal. This year’s appeal had been the most successful on record. The figures for the day were as follows:—Street collection, £924 12s 6d; proceeds from shop and Dug-out, £314 12s 4d; donations from firms, sports bodies, etc., £287 8s 6d; — total £1527 3s 3d. The executive tendered its thanks to all who had assisted. A letter was received from the Perpetual Trustees and Agency Company enclosing a cheque for £2OO from the estate of the late Lucy Harroway.—This was gratefully received.