History

In the Nineteenth Century a group of citizens revived the Order of St John in England, drawing their inspiration from the example of the Knights of St John who in medieval times, offered care and shelter for pilgrims and crusaders. St John Ambulance was subsequently formed to put its humanitarian ideals into practice in the new industrial society, promoting the cause of first aid for the sick and wounded through volunteer effort—a novel concept at the time and a much-needed one.

The movement spread to Australia in 1883 and has since developed into the organisation that we know today. The work of the Order of St John is carried out in many countries around the world. St John is a Royal Order of Chivalry with the Queen as its Sovereign Head. A more detailed history can be found at The Order of St John website (www.orderofstjohn.org).

The St John Ambulance Historical Society of Australia

The Historical Society is open to all members and friends of St John Ambulance who are interested in learning more about the long history of the Order of St John. Founded in 2001, the Society grew from an earlier informal ‘Priory History Group’ that began meeting in 1999. The Historical Society is a federal body with State and Territory branches. The national Society meets annually in conjunction with the National Conferences of St John Ambulance Australia. Each of its gatherings includes an annual general meeting and a history seminar at which various members present papers based on their historical research.

The Ashford Litter — the patented demountable
stretcher on cartwheels, also known as
'the St John Ambulance' from which
our organisation takes its name.

The Society’s logo reflects its federal nature.
Included on the logo are the Australian kangaroo
and emu, the shield of the Australian Priory of
the Most Venerable Order of St John
and the armorial devices of each of the
Australian States and Territories.

Ms Roxy Cowie
Chief Executive Officer
St John Ambulance Australia (Tas)
PO Box 414
Moonah TAS 7009
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