LOCAL Patricia Holmes was recently recognised for her commitment to the Mallala branch of the SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) as part of National Volunteer Week, which ended on Sunday.

Throughout last week, all 80 volunteer ambulance teams located across the state celebrated at a locally-held event, where service awards and certificates were presented to volunteers.

Miss Holmes was one of six recipients to be awarded the Premier’s Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Volunteer Service.

She said it was humbling to be recognised alongside other like-minded people.

“Without volunteers, there wouldn’t be an ambulance service in most regional towns in South Australia,” she said.

“This is why I joined.”

The 53-year-old Burton resident has been with the SAAS since 2000, and transferred from the Hamley Bridge to Mallala branch in 2002.

Miss Holmes said there is a team of around 30 volunteers at Mallala SAAS.

“As per our terms of engagement, we are expected to attend training a minimum of 12 nights per year and volunteer for a minimum of 30 hours per month on the ambulance, just to ensure we keep up our skills,” she said.

“I’m also the VTC (volunteer training co-ordinator), responsible for preparing new students for their course, co-ordinating and running training.

“I enjoy the people I work with.

“There’s so many different personalities you meet, and they all have interesting stories.

“I also love to help them in any small way I can.”

SAAS chief executive officer David Place said South Australian volunteers are exceptional people who give so much to the community.

“I am proud of each and every one of these people, and cannot thank them enough for their commitment,” he said.

“I also wish to acknowledge the families, friends, employers, local businesses and local ambulance committees who in their own way support our volunteers.

“By encouraging their loved ones or colleagues, the community benefits immensely from our professional and respected volunteers.”

Mallala SAAS will be holding an information night at Gawler ambulance station on June 27, from 7pm, for anyone who is interested in volunteering for SAAS.