St John keen for new local committee

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 12, Issue 573, 14 February 1995, Page 3

St John keen for new local committee

Key members of the W anganui region of the Order of St John visited Raetihi and Ohakune last week, to discuss the re-establishment of a local committee. The last committee faded away in 1990. Harold Wynne, regional chairperson, was quick to point out that it is the decision of the community and not the organisation as to whether a committee is set up. Following discussions with the district' s mayor Garrick Workman, (who reported to be in full support of the idea), a public meeting is planned for Thursday 23 February, 7.30pm, at the Waimarino Club rooms in Raetihi. The meeting will be chaired by Mr Workman. Turn to Page 6

St John keen for new local committee

FROMPAGE3 Benefits of having a local committee were expressed as: First aid programmes and training can be put in place to cater for public events such as A&P Shows, sporting events, on-going first aid training for young people (including regular CPR training) and youth activities. Regional director for ambulance services, Greg Phillips, said he saw a need for a stronger ambulance team. With tourism on the increase summer and winter, market gardening, general farming and the industrial sector (mills), there may be a need in the future for a more effective service and a stronger team could provide this, he said. If a committee is re-established it would need to consider membership and subscriptions (which must not exceed $20 per year), fund raising and volunteers. The Order of St John would provide uniforms and the necessary training. A subscription of $30 per year for those wishing to have "ambulance insurance cover" is available. Also of interest is the issue of the new ambulance base, once the new health centre is built.