It’s a remarkable claim from our colleagues at St John Ambulance South Australia, but one we are incredibly proud to highlight: they are home to the world’s longest-serving St John volunteer.
David Heard, a 91-year-old farmer from Murray Bridge, South Australia, began his St John journey as a cadet while still in primary school. With an impressive 80 years of service, David has not only inspired generations of volunteers within his own family but also within his community. His commitment to St John volunteering is truly extraordinary.
Throughout the decades, David has offered first aid services, volunteered with ambulance teams, and contributed significantly to the growth of local volunteer teams and the St John youth program. His dedication was recognized in 1958 when he received the Order of St John Service Medal, and he later achieved the prestigious title of Knight of the Order of St John.
After marrying his wife Joy, David helped manage her family’s property near Murray Bridge and joined the St John Murray Bridge team. He also assisted in establishing teams in Mannum, Mount Pleasant, Tailem Bend, and Meningie, laying the foundation for ambulance services in those areas. David played a key role in creating cadet teams at various locations, including Murray Bridge, Tailem Bend, and Karoonda.
David shared, “That’s the thing about volunteering. You meet good people. It’s also been good for my family. All our four children joined as cadets, and my daughter, Lorna, and two of my granddaughters are still volunteering. It’s in our blood.
Despite the loss of his wife in 2020, David, who remains an active member of the Murray Bridge Rowing Club, continues to lead an active lifestyle, regularly attending the gym. While he has stepped back from operational duties, David remains committed to his role as Treasurer of the St John Ambulance Historical Society and has no plans to retire from his volunteer work.
“I might get tired, but I’m not retiring,” David said. “I’m still learning. I’ve certainly made a lot of friends over the years.”
David’s inspiring story has caught the attention of media and St John organisations worldwide. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to David for his exceptional service and thank St John Ambulance South Australia for sharing his incredible journey with the world.
We want to take a moment to honor the extraordinary volunteers worldwide who have a profound impact on our lives and communities. Their commitment, kindness, and resilience motivate us, demonstrating that by joining forces, we can create a better future.
Let’s celebrate these remarkable individuals who are making the world a better place, one selfless act at a time.
