Noel Swift JP Officer (IV)
Noel was a St John Cadet and Cadet Leader before becoming a volunteer Ambulance Officer and Training Tutor. Over his 55-plus years with St John, he has been a strong supporter of Fellowship Groups and has served on Area Committees, including roles as Chair within both groups. He has also been a Major Incident Support Team volunteer, Peer Support Officer, and Community Educator.
A Regular Force Army Medic who has served overseas, Noel has effectively managed to meld St John volunteering into his military career. A Grand Prior’s Award Cadet, he has contributed significantly as a Youth Manager, Events Volunteer, and Ambulance Officer in Palmerston North. He represented St John youth on the New Zealand National Youth Council for over two years and has maintained a lasting connection with the Youth Division.
Noel gives his heart and soul to Hato Hone St John. He is a casual Emergency Medical Technician in Palmerston North and serves as a volunteer Peer Support Officer and Major Incident Support Team Manager. He contributes to his community through teaching Three Steps for Life, volunteering at events, and being an active member of the Area Committee and St John Fellowship Group. He runs volunteer trainings, scenario events, open days, and displays to highlight St John activities, upskills his team members, and looks after their welfare and mental health during tough times.
He has undertaken first aid training for others overseas and continues to volunteer at public events including rugby, horse racing, and motor sports. Noel is passionate about Hato Hone St John, embracing the values of the organisation and embodying service, leadership, and dedication in everything he does. He was admitted to the Order of St John as a Member in 2005 and became a Justice of the Peace for New Zealand in 2016, reflecting his enduring commitment to community service and excellence.
