After more than five decades of dedicated service, Alan Marshall CStJ has officially retired from his volunteer role with St John Ambulance Victoria. However, as a valued member of the St John Emergency Management Team, he will remain an affiliate member, ready to be called upon when needed. 

Alan’s journey with St John began back in the early 1970s. After leaving his role at VicRail, he was eager to continue the first aid training and competition work he had already been involved in for five years. It was his wife who first joined the St John Ambulance Broadmeadows Division, and after seeing what it was all about, Alan followed a year later. 

What started as a continuation of his first aid interest quickly became a lifelong commitment to helping others and serving his community. 

A Lifelong Commitment 

Alan’s passion for volunteering was fuelled by the sense of teamwork, purpose, and community impact. He found fulfilment in the events, the friendship, and the opportunity to compete and train others in first aid skills. His division at Broadmeadows welcomed him with open arms, and being so close to home, it felt like the perfect fit. 

Left to right: Gurdev Bahia (Field Emergency Medical Officer - FEMO Program), Olivia Howarth (Ambulance Victoria Stakeholder Engagement, FEMO Representative), Grant Coultman-Smith (Immediate Past President of the Australasian Institute of Emergency Services), Alan Marshall, Doug Caulfield (President, AIES Victoria Division) and Susan Fayers (EMT Officer - Policy, St John)

His 53-year journey was never static. Over the decades, Alan moved through the ranks, taking on local, regional, and state-level responsibilities. In the 1970s, he was part of the Broadmeadows rescue team, which operated a specialised rescue vehicle before the State Emergency Service was formed. This included training in cliff rescues, mine rescues, and participating in disaster callouts. 

As he transitioned to a leadership role at the St John Ambulance State Headquarters, Alan became a vital part of the Emergency Management team, helping deliver support during major state incidents under the Victorian Health Emergency Plan. He was also a valued member of the St John Board in Victoria and supported the St John Historical Society, preserving the organisation’s long and proud legacy. 

A Farewell with Gratitude 

On Friday, 11 July 2025, a group of staff, volunteers and representatives from Victoria’s emergency management sector gathered at St John Headquarters in Notting Hill for a heartfelt morning tea to honour Alan’s retirement. After several years of ill health, Alan made the difficult decision to step back from active service, but not without a fitting tribute to his extraordinary contribution. 

In a special surprise, Alan was awarded a Silver Commendation for his solid dedication and service. The room was filled with admiration and respect for a man who gave so much of himself to St John and the broader community. 

Alan receives the Silver Commendation medal from CEO Gordon Botwright and Chairman, Mark Engel

Why Volunteer? Alan’s Advice 

Alan believes strongly in the value of volunteering and encourages people of all ages to consider joining St John. 

“You learn so much, first aid skills, teamwork, management, communication. There’s something for everyone, and it’s a great way to be part of something bigger than yourself.” 

He is a firm believer that you can join at any stage of life, whether you are looking for a change, seeking new skills, or wanting to contribute to your community. For Alan, St John wasn’t just volunteering; it was a way of life. 

Thank You, Alan 

On behalf of everyone at St John Ambulance Victoria, we thank Alan Marshall CStJ for his 53 years of incredible service. His legacy, leadership, and kindness will remain a cherished part of our story. 

Enjoy your well-earned retirement, Alan; your St John family will miss you deeply, and we are so grateful for the time, heart, and dedication you have given.