When Rebecca first joined St John Ambulance Victoria, she didn’t expect to fall in love with her work quite so deeply.

“I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I do, but now, I couldn’t see myself anywhere else,” she says with a smile.

As the Team Leader for Community Transport, Rebecca leads a service that helps elderly and vulnerable Victorians get to essential medical appointments, from routine check-ups to cancer treatments and palliative care visits. But for Rebecca and her team, it’s about much more than a simple ride.

“Our clients often tell us it feels like more than transport; it’s their social outing for the day,” Rebecca explains. “They get someone who listens, cares, and makes them feel safe.”

Rebuilding and Growing After COVID

When Rebecca joined St John, Community Transport was still recovering from the challenges of the pandemic. Many volunteer drivers had stepped back, and the team was down to just four.

Through Rebecca’s leadership and determination, the service has flourished once again.

“Now, we’ve grown so much; we’ve been able to help around 20 more clients each week,” she says proudly. “Last month, we completed 205 trips, our highest number ever. That’s 205 people who were able to safely get to their appointments and home again.”

Each drive represents a meaningful connection. For many clients, especially those facing illness or isolation, the friendly face behind the wheel can make all the difference.

“It’s not just transport. It’s about dignity, companionship, and independence. Hearing how much this service means to people makes it all worthwhile.”

A Leader with Heart

Rebecca’s approach to leadership is grounded in empathy, something she says has only deepened since becoming a mother.

“Motherhood has changed how I see people,” she says. “I have so much more empathy now, especially when hearing our clients’ stories. It’s taught me to appreciate every moment.”

She credits her children for reminding her to focus on the positives.

“Kids don’t hold on to things; they move on quickly and find joy again. I try to bring that mindset to work and to life.”

Rebecca describes her team as “beautiful people”, compassionate volunteers who show up every day ready to make a difference.

“I don’t need to motivate them,” she says. “They inspire me. They care deeply about our clients, and they go above and beyond every day.”

Through St John’s leadership and management programs, Rebecca has also developed her own leadership style, one built on trust, gratitude, and support.

“I’ve learned so much from the people around me. You can walk into any office here, ask for help, and someone will always be there for you. That’s what makes St John special.”

Family, Love and Purpose

Outside of work, Rebecca finds strength and joy in her family. She lives with her wife, Simone, and their two young children, and describes family life as her greatest source of happiness.

“Simone and I met 14 years ago while working in real estate,” Rebecca recalls. “She’s my rock. I’m so grateful for her and our kids, they inspire me every single day to keep going.”

Weekends are spent surrounded by loved ones: nieces, nephews, grandparents, creating the kind of warm, supportive environment Rebecca helps foster for her clients.

The Heart of Community Transport

For Rebecca, leading the Community Transport team isn’t just a job, it’s a calling. The service gives people independence, connection, and comfort during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives.

“Our drivers form real bonds with clients. Sometimes, we get the sad news that someone has passed away, and it’s heartbreaking because we’ve all grown to care about them,” she says softly. “But that’s the beauty of what we do, it’s real, human connection.”

As St John continues to expand its Community Transport services, Rebecca’s leadership stands as a proof to what compassion, teamwork and purpose can achieve.

“At the end of the day, I just want to make sure our clients feel safe, valued, and happy,” she says. “That’s what makes it all worthwhile.”