St John Ambulance Achieves Milestone Journey to Dunedin

An impressive journey was undertaken by the St John Ambulance Association, showcasing the efficiency of their new Austin ambulance. On December 10, 1925, the vehicle departed from the Central Fire Station at 05:15, embarking on a lengthy trip to Queenstown to transport a patient back to Dunedin. The ambulance arrived in Queenstown at 17:00 that same day.

Upon arrival, the patient was loaded into the ambulance shortly after 06:00 the following day. The return journey began at 06:30, with the ambulance successfully reaching Dunedin by 20:00 the same evening. Despite the lengthy travel, the patient managed the journey well and praised Driver W. Black for his skilled handling of the vehicle.

Notable Achievements in Ambulance Service

This trip marks one of the longest journeys accomplished by an ambulance of its kind, covering a total distance of 361 miles. Throughout both legs of the trip, the vehicle maintained an average speed exceeding 15 miles per hour. The ambulance’s performance, particularly during such a long and demanding journey, highlights the commitment and capability of the St John Ambulance Association and its drivers.

On the return trip, the ambulance was not only transporting the patient but also carried five individuals, including Dr Kingston from Queenstown and a nurse, who assisted in caring for the patient. The non-stop nature of the journey further underscores the efficient service provided by the ambulance team.

Encounter with Marine Life

In a separate incident on December 11, 1925, an unusual sighting occurred at the cross wharf early in the morning. A large creature, known as a “devil-fish” or “sucker,” was spotted thrashing in the water. The sight startled onlookers as its long, dark-brown arms flailed, attempting to escape by hiding under a boulder.

Members of a nearby trawler crew reacted swiftly. One crew member used a boat-hook to pierce the creature, which continued to thrash until it was pulled aboard the trawler’s deck. A second devil-fish was also encountered, and similarly dispatched, demonstrating the crew’s quick decision-making in the face of an unexpected marine encounter.

These incidents reflect the diverse challenges faced by local services and the community’s ability to respond to both medical and environmental situations effectively.