Celebrating Dr Harry Oxer’s remarkable career

Today marks the retirement of Dr Harry Oxer AM ASM KStJ from St John WA, concluding an extraordinary 48-year journey of dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment. 

At the age of 92, Dr Oxer leaves behind a legacy that has profoundly shaped our organisation and the broader community.

Dr Oxer joined SJWA in 1976 as the first Executive Medical Director. 

Over his 26-year tenure in this role, he laid the foundation for modern first aid and paramedic training, developing comprehensive courses and introducing pivotal advancements such as portable defibrillators on all frontline ambulances—a first in Australia. 

His visionary leadership has significantly improved ambulance services across Western Australia.

In 2003, Dr Oxer took on the volunteer role of Deputy Commissioner of the Volunteer First Aid Service (VFAS), now known as Event Health Services (EHS). 

His dedication to volunteer support was unparalleled, ensuring proper resourcing, training, and motivation through regular visits and motivational talks.

Upon retiring from his paid role, Dr Oxer continued to serve SJWA as Director of Ceremonies and Honorary Librarian and Museum Curator for the Commandery in Western Australia. 

His contributions to historical research and museum curation have been invaluable. He has authored three books and co-authored another, further enriching the historical knowledge of St John.

Dr Oxer’s illustrious career has been recognised with numerous accolades, including the Ambulance Service Medal in 2002, Knight of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem in 2007, and Member of the Order of Australia in 2012. 

These honours reflect his outstanding service and contributions to both SJWA and the broader community.

Dr Oxer’s enduring legacy was celebrated at a special afternoon tea on Thursday with SJWA Group Chief Executive Officer Kevin Brown and the Board. 

But Dr Oxer said it wasn’t goodbye, as SJWA had always been an important part of his life, and always would be. 

“I was always so proud to have found St John…it has been enormous fun,” he said. 

“I don’t know what stepping back will look like, I can’t imagine not being involved in some way.” 

Dr Oxer said SJWA was an “extraordinary organisation” due to its “very special mix” of volunteers and paid team members all working towards a shared vision of service to humanity.

SJWA Board Non-executive Director Jeffrey Williams said Dr Oxer was considered among the “royalty of innovation in pre-hospital care”. 

“Dr Oxer, along with Nancy Caroline and Donald Trunkey, are eminent pre-hospital physicians who effectively established what is pre-hospital medicine worldwide,” he said. 

As Dr Oxer retires, his legacy of compassion, innovation, and dedication will continue to inspire us. 

His contributions to first aid education, volunteer support, and historical preservation have left an indelible mark on SJWA. 

We extend our deepest gratitude and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.

Dr Oxer, thank you for your remarkable service. You will always be a cherished member of the St John family.