St John WA Williams sub-centre marks 60-year milestone with celebration of volunteers, history and service

A big group of volunteers past and present gathered at the St John WA Williams sub-centre recently to mark 60 years of service to the Wheatbelt South. Founding members John Garlick and Phil Earnshaw were among the guests who celebrated the milestone on April 20, and Williams sub-centre chair Phil Stewart said it had been a remarkable journey. “There are countless stories on the challenges overcome, the lives saved, and bonds forged within our close-knit St John family,” he said. “The stories will be sad, funny and remarkable, but with a common theme of dedication from our wonderful volunteers. “It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come.” Mr Stewart paid tribute to the entire Williams crew. “Your unwavering commitment has been the cornerstone of the ambulance service, touching countless lives and leaving an indelible mark on our community,” he said. St John WA chair Sally Carbon OAM was also in attendance, and thanked those who had answered the call. “The biggest thing that I have felt today is the volunteer story,” she said. “There are about 130 people that have volunteered at the Williams sub-centre over the 60 years. Some were there at the start through to today. “I’ve heard some beautiful stories of the amount of work that everyone has done over the last 60 years. “Congratulations for the work you do serving the community.”