There aren’t many days when you get to see modern-day knights honoured for their service. But that’s exactly what happened on Friday, 20 June, at the 2025 St John Investiture Ceremony held at Government House Tasmania.
Set against the grandeur of one of Tasmania’s most historic buildings, this annual event is more than just a ceremony—it’s a celebration of community, compassion, and the extraordinary individuals who live out the values of St John every day.
If you’ve never heard of the Order of St John, here’s the short version: it's a Royal Order of Chivalry with roots stretching back to the 11th century, when a group of monks cared for injured and sick pilgrims in Jerusalem.
Fast-forward 900 years, and the Order’s mission remains unchanged: to serve humanity. Today, its members include healthcare workers, first aid volunteers, board members, and community legends across more than 30 countries—including right here in Tasmania.
Membership in the Order is not automatic. It’s an honour. Each person who wears the insignia has gone above and beyond—often for years—without seeking thanks or attention.
But one day a year, we do shine the spotlight. And what a day it was.
Becoming a Knight of Grace in the Order of St John isn’t just a title—it’s one of the highest forms of recognition for exceptional, sustained service to others. It’s not awarded lightly. Those selected have gone above and beyond over many years, showing leadership, integrity, and a deep commitment to the Order’s mission of helping people in their moments of greatest need.
At this year’s ceremony, two Tasmanians were formally knighted in recognition of their extraordinary impact—both here at home and on the international stage. Their investiture reflects a centuries-old tradition of honouring individuals who exemplify the values of St John: courage, compassion, and service without seeking reward.
Major General Steven Smith AM CSC RFD (Retd) was knighted for his game-changing leadership of St John Ambulance Tasmania. From financial recovery to growing our reach in schools, youth, and community services—his steady hand helped guide the organisation through the pandemic and into a stronger, more inclusive future.
Clinical Professor Nitin Verma AM OTL also received a knighthood for his visionary work in global eye health. A champion of St John’s international Eye Hospital programs, he’s brought education, funding and hope to some of the world’s most vulnerable communities—helping more people see the world clearly.
Every year, the Investiture ceremony honours people across all levels of service: volunteers, staff, board members, youth leaders and more. They represent the heart of St John—the ones showing up early, staying late, and doing the quiet, relentless work of keeping our communities safe and cared for.
This year’s recipients include:
Aaron Cassidy was promoted to Officer of the Order for his tireless leadership of the Launceston Division and his knack for bringing people together across emergency services to train and prepare for the worst.
Alex Schouten and Peter Fitzgerald were admitted as Members of the Order.
Alex, a Board member and change-maker, has been a driving force for diversity, governance and strategy—bringing professionalism and heart to everything she does.
Peter? He’s logged over 8,000 hours driving cancer patients to treatment and assisting older Tasmanians through St John’s Community Care program. That’s not a typo.
Scott McCarthy received the 4th Clasp to the Order Service Medal, marking an astonishing 30 years of dedicated service to the community.
Sasha Barker received the Peter Falkland Youth Leader of the Year Award, recognised as a passionate role model making a big impact through the St John Youth Program.
St John Bronze Commendations were awarded to:
Order Service Medals for 10 years of service were awarded to:
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
From the Vice-Regal Salute to the stirring national anthem, the 2025 Investiture was a day of reflection, celebration and pride. It reminded us that service comes in many forms—from boardroom strategy to quiet hospital visits to first aid on the front lines. Each person recognised has helped shape a safer, kinder Tasmania.
Congratulations to all recipients. Your work inspires others, strengthens communities, and continues a legacy of care that’s lasted for centuries—and will continue for many more to come.
