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.

2012 – continuing

Jacquie Hennessey MStJ

My St John journey has taken me across Australia and the Pacific, through frontline paramedicine, clinical leadership, education, emergency management and executive roles. While the …
Continuing

Jess Jeggo

Jess Jeggo’s story with St John NT began at just 11 years of age, when she joined the Palmerston Cadet Division. What began as an early interest in first aid quickly developed into a lifelong …
2013 – 2023

Sarah Lance

I have been so lucky to be involved with St John for over 10years, first as a Board Director NSW, then Chair, NSW and a Director of the national organisation and finally as CEO, NSW from 2017 to 2023…
2001- continuing

Heather Lavery

I joined St John as a cadet on 10 December 2001, beginning a journey that has become an important part of my life. Over the years, I progressed through a variety of roles and had the privilege …
2017 – continuing

Vanessa Lorford-Mills MStJ

My name is Vanessa Lorford-Mills and I joined St John NSW as the General Manager People, Performance & Culture in 2017 as part of the Executive Team. What I am most proud of is the …
2015 – continuing

Emily Mangione

For more than a decade, Emily Mangione has been a valued member of St John NT, building a career marked by service, professionalism, and leadership. Beginning as an Intern Paramedic in …
1981-2014

Vivienne Joy Miller CStJ

I became a volunteer First Aid Instructor with St John Ambulance in 1981 and remained in that role until I retired in 2014, a total of 33 years. At the same time, I was also an active member of …
1993 – continuing

Isabelle Mouita

My journey with St John Ambulance began in 1991, when I joined as a young volunteer. What began as an opportunity to learn first aid and help others has become more than 35 years of …
2023 – continuing

Catherine Nunn

For the past three years, Cathy has served as a Paramedic with St John NT, providing critical care to the Katherine community and surrounding region. In a relatively short time, she has established …

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