CELEBRATING WOMEN IN ST JOHN

FOREWORD

For more than a century, St John has been shaped by people who serve their communities with skill, compassion and dedication. Among them are countless women whose contributions have strengthened the organisation, supported those in need and helped build the St John we know today.

Her Service. Our Legacy. is a celebration of these women and the impact they have made. Within these profiles are stories of leadership, care, commitment and quiet determination. Some are well known, while others may have gone largely unrecognised. Together, they form an important part of the rich history and enduring spirit of St John.

As I read through these stories, I am reminded that service takes many forms. It is found in moments of leadership and innovation, in acts of kindness and mentorship, and in the willingness to step forward when others need help most. Through their contributions, many women have helped shape the culture of St John, strengthen our communities and inspire future generations to be there to help, when help is needed.

As you read these stories, I hope you too, will be inspired by the remarkable women who have given so much in service to others. May this collection honour their contribution, celebrate their achievements and ensure their stories continue to be shared for generations to come.

Her service is part of our story. Her legacy is part of our future.

Across St John Ambulance Australia and the historic Order of St John, women play an essential role in delivering care, strengthening communities and advancing our mission of service.

ABOUT

In 2012, the first edition of Celebrating Women in St John Ambulance Australia: Our past, present and future was published.

By establishing this online biography of St John women, we can ensure that their stories are recorded for ever, and their achievements not forgotten.

Every day, women across the organisation lead, serve and strengthen their communities in meaningful ways. Members are encouraged to continue nominating and recognising the women whose dedication embodies the values of the Order, ensuring their service and impact are perpetually celebrated.

Click here to download the PDF >

PROFILES

From frontline volunteers and trainers to operational leaders, educators and specialists, the biographies of St John women shared here celebrates their work and reflects the spirit of service that defines St John.

Search for a name below or filter by state/territory.

2004 – continuing

Sue Campbell-Lloyd

I was appointed St John NSW in June 2004 as a Director of the Board, responsible for the Community Care Programs.  Two programs that were very successful included the Program to Aid Literacy in Primary Schools (PALS), and the Immunisation …
2012 – continuing

Charlie Bartak MStJ

Charlie Bartak began her career with St John Ambulance Australia in 2012 as an eLearning Projects Officer with the Australian Office. Since then, she has played an important role in developing …
Continuing

Jordan Berger

Jordan Berger’s journey with St John Ambulance began at the age of 15 when she joined as a Cadet with the Bayside Division in Melbourne, Victoria. Inspired by a lifelong dream of becoming a …
1987- continuing

Coretta Bessi

My St John story began in 1987, when I was 14 and became the first cadet enrolled in the new Port Kembla Cadet Division. A friend of my parents, who was the Divisional Superintendent, …
2022-continuing

Larissa Cook

My name is Larissa Cook and I am the Chair of the Board of St John Ambulance Australia (NSW). I joined the Board as a Director in 2022 and have had various roles including Chair of the …
1987- continuing

Michell Crawford OStJ

Michell’s journey with St John began on 2 July 1987 when she joined the Richmond (Yarra) Division in Victoria. Starting as a Private, she steadily progressed through the ranks, demonstrating …
1999 – continuing

Dr Elizabeth Ellis CStJ

My connection with St John began through my family. In1988, I married Mark Compton, who has had a lifetime involvement with St John Ambulance. When our boys became cadet members …
1971 – continuing

Anne Fogarty OStJ

My connection with St John Ambulance spans more than five decades and has been one of the most rewarding and meaningful parts of my life. I joined St John as a Cadet on 18 June 1971 with the …
2022 – continuing

Enita Hampton

I am Strategic Engagement and Development Director at the Australian Office. This is a role aiming to expand St John’s influence and collaboration. It includes government and cross-sector …

NOMINATIONS

Nominations are welcomed from all areas and roles within St John Ambulance Australia and the Australian Priory. We encourage you to share stories that might otherwise go untold. Your nomination may reflect recent achievements or the enduring legacy of women whose leadership, service or advocacy has shaped St John over time.

The nominee must:

  • be or has been part of St John (as a member of the Order, staff member or volunteer)
  • be someone who identifies as female (or did, at the time of their impact)
  • have at least one image that can be shared as part of the publication.

Please note:

  • You may self-nominate if you identify as female.
  • All nominations will be carefully considered. However, not all nominees will be able to be included—nomination does not guarantee publication!
  • By nominating, you also give permission for editing your story to house style. If there are substantial changes, you will be consulted.

If you believe your nomination fits the above criteria please email the person’s details, story and images to fairlie.tucker@stjohn.org.au