Past and present volunteers celebrated

Past and present volunteers of Roxburgh's St John division spent the weekend celebrating more than 50 years of saving lives in the Teviot Valley, Central Otago.

Roxburgh resident Doug Dance received two awards for 50 and 52 years' dedication, while Victoria Whyte and Gerardine Middlemass were given certificates for their six years' service.

Division treasurer Lynette Owens, of Millers Flat, also received one for nine years' service.

Valerie Cunningham's 22 years of service at a Youth and Penguin (junior St John members) was recognised at a prizegiving on Wednesday.

The volunteers received the awards from the Southern Region Trust Board chairman, Murray Jones.

Mr Dance, who is also a commander of the order, paid tribute to his wife Jean, who acted as unpaid secretary.

He joined when he was 16 and was one of 13 on the inaugural committee.

He had served in several roles including as transport officer and Roxburgh sub-centre delegate to the St John centre (now the Southern region) committee.

Former Roxburgh doctors, Dr Lewis Gray, of Otautau, Dr David Wilson, of Wanaka and Dr Don Stewart, of Linton Army Base, Palmerston North, also attended.

Three brothers and former orchardists, who between them served 90 years were at the reunion.

Ian Johnson, of Dunedin, served 22 years, David Johnson, of Roxburgh, 35 years and Graeme Johnson, of Alexandra, 33 years.