St John Ambulance began its Search and Rescue Squads after WWII to collaborate with Victoria Police and the Country Fire Authority. It was superseded in the mid-1970s by the government funded State Emergency Service. However, in its heyday, S&R attended many disasters including the Southern Aurora derailment and the Westgate Bridge collapse.

Stewart Grainger, who was a leader in the Footscray Squad, will give a presentation on the history of the service, its training and its attendance at those disasters.

For more information please contact Allan Mawdsley, Hon Secretary of the Victorian branch of the St John Ambulance Historical Society on 04190770 066 | museum@stjohnvic.com.au

Image: Westgate Bridge Collapse

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