St John Ambulance Boosted with Two New Vehicles
St John Ambulance on Thursday received two ambulance Landcruiser vehicles generously donated by the Queensland Ambulance Service.
The organized event at St Barnabas Cathedral in Honiara was held to bless and hand over the ambulances to St John Ambulance Solomon Islands.
Speaking during the event, Acting Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Andrew Schloeffel, expressed his hope that the ambulances will serve the people of Solomon Islands for many years to come.
He mentioned that the donation is an example of Australia’s broader efforts to assist the Solomon Islands Government in achieving its vision for a health system that is more capable and effective in supporting the people of Solomon Islands, as part of implementing the national health strategic plan from 2022 to 2031.
“Australia’s support is directed in three key areas: improving health infrastructure, delivering essential services, and building a stronger health system. We are also investing in the workforce through nursing, internships, and clinical partnerships between Solomon Islands and Australian doctors and nurses,” Mr. Schloeffel said.
Cutting of Ribbon during the event
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of St John’s Ambulance Solomon Islands, Michael Andrews, expressed his pleasure at receiving the two new ambulance vehicles.
He stated, “This will go a long way in helping Solomon Islanders and all those who live, work, and play in the Happy Isles to access emergency pre-hospital care. These ambulances are stocked with lifesaving medication and carry crews who can perform intensive interventions. We are so pleased.”
Andrews also called on the public not to use the toll-free emergency phone number for prank calls, pointing out that they have received many prank calls, preventing them from responding to genuine emergency calls.
Meanwhile, ambulance driver Wilson Roboliu stated that the addition of the two new Landcruiser Ambulances will improve their work performance. This sentiment was echoed by his colleague, first aid nurse Dickson Ngabuli, who emphasized that the vehicles will significantly benefit their work.
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By Alex Dadamu