6 November 2026
With origins dating back to the eleventh century, The Order of St John has a long and proud tradition of humanitarian service.
Today, its members continue to uphold that legacy through their commitment to supporting health, resilience and community service initiatives around the world – including in Tasmania.
As a Royal Order of Chivalry, King Charles III is the Sovereign Head and Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, serves as Grand Prior. Historically, the Governor has served as Deputy Prior of The Order in Tasmania.
This afternoon, on the command of the Grand Prior, the Chancellor of The Order in Australia, Cameron Oxley GCStJ appointed Her Excellency the Honourable Caroline Wells, Governor of Tasmania, Deputy Prior and invested her as a Dame of Grace (DStJ) in The Order in a ceremony at Government House.
Following her Investiture and in her new role, Her Excellency then presided over a ceremony recognising members and volunteers for their distinguished service to St John and the wider community, including those promoted within The Order, as well as recipients of long service and youth awards.
Today’s ceremonies were particularly special for Her Excellency as she has a long-held connection to St John, having previously served as a St John Ambulance Cadet and received the Grand Prior’s Award.
