Open day a shot in the arm for St John branch

The leader of the local St John Ambulance branch has called for more volunteers after a tremendous turnout at Sunday’s open day.

St John Broome station manager Gary Davies said although the organisation had about 50 helpers, they would need more to sustain their high workload.

“We have a great bunch of volunteers from all walks of life, from doctors to cleaners and everything in between,” he said.

“But we lost quite a few over the wet season, with people moving for new jobs and opportunities, so I urge the community to put their hands up.

“It is a very rewarding and volunteers would get just as much out of it as they put in.

“The first life you change is your own once you join our ranks.”

The Broome wing of the first aid organisation hosted an open day on Sunday for the community to have a first-hand look at what goes on behind the scenes at St John, as well as for helpers to celebrate their work with family and friends.

Families were given the chance to take part in CPR demonstrations and tour the facility, getting a look at state-of-the-art vehicles and equipment.

Mr Davies said the day was a great success.

“Not only did families come down for a fun and social day, but we got to teach everyone a little bit too,” he said.