St John WA volunteers collect Australia Day awards

Celebrations are in order for St John WA’s Waroona sub centre after the local team won Community Group of the Year at the Shire’s Australia Day ceremony.

Established in 1959, the sub centre is run by volunteers and provides the community with emergency medical assistance. 

As well as providing first aid training to locals, the Waroona sub centre has overseen the installation of more than 24 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) throughout the Shire.

Waroona volunteers provide first aid services at local events and respond to major incidents in the region.

The group has recently introduced a community transport service, providing transport for residents needing to attend medical appointments. 

“It was an emotional moment for us,” Waroona Chair Jenny McNamara said.

“I have been with the sub centre for 15 years, and without the efforts of those who came before us, we simply would not have the presence we have today.

“It was such an honour to accept the Active Citizenship Award at the Australia Day 2026 celebrations on behalf of both our past and present volunteers, who have shaped us into what we are today.”

Other St John WA team members to make their community’s Australia Day honour roll were Jasmine Cockram from Merredin, Emma McKeown from Mt Magnet, Christine Fyfe and Ross Chappell from Lake Grace, Philip Crute from Brookton, Bree Del Borrello from Lancelin, Jenny Forbes from Nannup, Heather Kay from Exmouth, Shirley Marsh from Darkan, Hayley Brett from Onslow, and Tracy Jones from Dowerin.

St John WA congratulates all award winners and nominees and thanks them – and all our awesome vollies – for their dedication and hard work.