Traditional notions of service alive in Ballarat

CHIVALRY is a mediaeval concept denoting deeds of great valour performed by knights.

The Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller – Australasia conducted an investiture of modern Knights, Dames and Serving Sisters of the Order in Ballarat on Saturday.

This Ecumenical Christian Order of Chivalry, descended from the Knights Hospitaller who founded a hospice in Jerusalem in the 11th Century, abide by the code of providing direct, life-changing intervention and aid to people in their own communities and around the world.

Vedran Drakulic OAM, who was appointed Knight of the Order of St John at the ceremony, said that giving back to the community is something that he is very passionate about.

“The Order carries a very noble, centuries-old tradition of helping those most disadvantaged in the community, and I can only hope that I can do my bit which is to serve for faith and for humanity,” he said.

Chevalier’s John Davis and Graeme Kent, OAM, were also invested as Knights of the Order while Patricia Anderson and Harriet Fennell were invested as Serving Sisters.

Dame Barbara Abley, AM, Prior of the Victorian Priory said the Ballarat Group has a very strong supporter base and enjoys the benefits of an exceptional range of influential contacts within their region.

“The group has achieved some remarkable results in their fundraising efforts and support for chosen charities within the Ballarat area,” she said.

“They are very mindful of their commitment in honouring the tenets of the Order of Saint John which is For Faith for Service to Humanity.”