Above: St John Ambulance volunteers (back) Rob Correa and Leslie Jolly with Max McCrimmon, Tanya Lees, Luke Ing and Hilary Mueller.
By Paul Dunlop
PAKENHAM desperately needs more lifesavers.
That’s the message from St John Ambulance volunteer Hilary Mueller.
Ms Mueller is the divisional administrator for the Cardinia branch of the organisation.
She said more helping hands were urgently required to provide what is an invaluable community service in the fast-growing area.
“We need people to train to save a life,” Ms Mueller said.
“We are the first response team.
“If a paramedic is needed we call them out and we look after the injured person until the paramedic arrives.”
St John Ambulance volunteers are a regular sight at events such as little athletics, the Cardinia Ranges farmers’ markets and local festivals.
But the lack of numbers mean it is often hard to spread the help around.
Ms Mueller said the team was looking for recruits of all ages, but would particularly welcome new members 18 or over.
Children are able to join as cadets from age 11.
Volunteers learn everything from bandaging a sprained ankle to applying CPR.
Ms Mueller, a grandmother, said age was no barrier to joining.
“It’s people’s energy and commitment that’s important,” she said.
The team meets every Wednesday at Outlook in Pakenham and attends events around Cardinia Shire and even further afield.
Ms Mueller said the skills learnt by St John volunteers could be the difference between life and death.
“If somebody is choking or falling down in front of one of our members, they’ll know what to do,” she said.
“First aid is a key part of what we do but it’s more than just that. People learn leadership skills and develop social connections as well. We’re like another family, we laugh and work together.”
Cardinia Shire Council has supported the membership drive.
Cr Brett Owen said St John Ambulance volunteers provided a vital community service.
Ms Mueller said members received a free uniform and all the training they needed.
“We’ve got such a lot to offer, it’s just a shame that people don’t seem to be aware of us.
“Joining St John is a chance for people to do something really useful for their community.
“You learn to help people and to really be a lifesaver.
“It’s a very rewarding move.”
For more information, call Ms Mueller on 0417 133 987.
