For David and Steph Ave, volunteering with St John Ambulance Victoria is more than just giving back to the community, it’s something that connects them as father and daughter.

Steph’s journey with St John began more than 23 years ago, when she was just 13. “Dad caught up with an old high school friend, and through their daughter I was introduced to volunteering with St John,” Steph recalls. “I was interested in healthcare, so I went along to a meeting at Frankston, with Dad driving me there, and I’ve never looked back.”

From cadet beginnings, Steph has grown into a long-term volunteer, a nurse by profession, and now St John’s Event Support Manager. Along the way, her dad was always cheering her on from the sidelines.

“Watching Steph’s progression from cadet to event manager has been inspiring,” David says proudly. “As a parent, it’s one of the nicest things to see your children involved in something meaningful and making a real difference.”

Following in Steph’s footsteps

After retiring, David was looking for something purposeful to do. With Steph’s encouragement, he joined St John as a Community Transport driver. Now, he spends his time helping people maintain their independence, transporting older Victorians, people with disabilities, and others who might otherwise be isolated.

“My motivation was simple,” David explains. “I wanted to give people the chance to get out, stay independent, stay connected. Transport should never be a barrier to living a full life. I can’t change the world, but I can be part of the solution.”

Steph beams with pride when she talks about her dad’s contribution: “He’s so dedicated. Hearing his stories about the people he supports is really inspiring. I’m so proud of him, not just as my dad, but as someone making a difference in the community.”

Two generations, one mission

Though they volunteer in different areas, both David and Steph share the same values: kindness, community, and service. For David, seeing his daughter’s passion has only deepened his admiration.

“Steph has always had that human connection,” he says. “The way she gives her time, her kindness, and her care, it makes me so proud to be her dad.”

For Steph, the admiration goes both ways. “Dad is such a huge inspiration to me. Seeing how far he’s come, from growing up in Indonesia to building a life here, and now giving so much back through St John, he’s my idol.”

A Father’s Day message

With Father’s Day here, both father and daughter share a heartfelt message.

“To all the dads and father figures out there,” David says, “thank you for your love, dedication, and presence. Dads really do shape the future of the next generation; you’re the heroes and the backbone of families. Happy Father’s Day.”

Steph adds with a smile, “Happy Father’s Day, Dad. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without you.”