St John youth well rewarded

RECOGNITION: The next generation of St John at Doubtless Bay after receiving their awards for 2014.

A very successful year was capped off nicely when St John Youth Doubtless Bay staged its awards night.

Mya O'Brien's Super Penguin Award was presented by a very special visitor, none other than Primo the Penguin, while Brenna Sabin was named Cadet of the Year, Kara Walsh received the prize for best uniform, and Tangikina Finau was recognised for best attendance.

The Morton CPR Cup went to Toby Lakin, and Quinn Moffat received an award for NCO of the Year for his contribution to the leadership team.

The Grand Prior Citation, the ultimate award for St John Cadets, was presented to Mitchell O'Neill by Margaret Suckling, Commander of the Order of St John.

The Grand Prior Award, which St John describes as one of the best educational and recreational youth programmes in New Zealand, requires cadets to set goals in a variety of areas. At least 12 of the 27 challenges available must be successfully completed, Six challenges are compulsory, the cadet choosing the others, while also completing 100 hours of community service and displaying outstanding character.

"The path to the award is challenging, Mitchell's citation bearing witness to his steadfastness commitment to St John," acting youth division manager Sallie Lakin said.

"He joined in 2005 as a Penguin, and undertook leadership development training in 2010. In 2011 he was promoted to Cadet Corporal, then Cadet Sergeant the same year. He is a loyal, hard-working, steadfast member of St John Youth Doubtless Bay and an asset to the division.

"Formal presentation of the Grand Prior Award badge and parchment is a very special occasion," she added.

"As the highest award, other than for bravery, that the Order can bestow on its cadets, the ceremony is conducted by the Prior of St John in New Zealand, the Governor-General, usually at Government House."

Meanwhile St John Youth Doubtless Bay began the new year earlier this week (meeting on Tuesdays at the St John Hall, Cooper's Beach from 5-6.30pm. New members are always welcome - go to www.facebook.com/stjohnyouthdoubtlessbay for more.