St John Ambulance Kiama Combined Division had a big week at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and local Anzac Day events.

A team of a cadet first aider, six first responders and an Emergency Medical Technician travelled to Sydney to support the Royal Easter Show, on the show's busiest day.

For many it was their first state event, which offered them experiences that are not commonly presented to them around the Illawarra and Shoalhaven. 

Kiama Combined Division’s 2IC and officer in charge, Melissa Williamson, said the team had a great time at the Easter Show.

“It was a great experience for them, they got to see stuff they may not ever normally see. They got to meet members from all over the state,” she said.

The St John Ambulance Kiama Combined Division at the Sydney Royal Easter Show

The team treated 20 patients with cases increasing in complexity as the day continued, but they still had time to enjoy themselves. 

“We managed to squeeze in some time at the end to grab some showbags, which is really good. It was great for camaraderie between people,” Melissa said. 

Not long after their day at the Easter Show, the Kiama Combined Division were back out again attending the Kiama dawn service and the Anzac Day march and ceremony.

“We don't actually charge anything for Anzac Day either because of what it is, we just go there completely voluntarily,” Melissa said. 

The Kiama Combined Division currently has around 20 adult members as well as seven members under the age of 18. The division covers community and sporting events within the local community and around the Shellharbour LGA, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands areas. 

“I guess some of the community events they can't run without first aid coverage,” Melissa said. 

“Because our guys are volunteers, we can do it for less than what you would pay for events management and organisation.”

Melissa says that the benefit of volunteering with St John Ambulance goes beyond the events. 

“You gain those skills throughout and become confident in helping other people if something does go wrong,” she said. 

“It’s kind of a win-win…for the community and for the members to gain those skills, because those members are going to take those skills with them in everyday life.”

Melissa encourages people to join St John Ambulance Kiama Combined Division as they are always looking for new volunteers.

“All you can do is give it a go. We do have a period where you can decide before you're fully committed,” she said. 

“You won't be left on your own, taking charge of everything, you have people supporting you all the way.”

St John Ambulance Kiama Combined Division are actively recruiting and looking for volunteers. To learn more or get involved, you can reach out to them via Facebook or through their website.