VOLUNTEERING is a simple act of kindness and South Gippsland local Ian Sutton spends his days in retirement helping others after a lifetime serving his country. 

Beginning the role as a volunteer driver for the South Gippsland Hospital, Ian felt drawn to helping those that were living alone, those that were left without transportation and unable to get to their vital specialist appointments across regional Victoria.

After joining the Navy as a 15-year-old young man in 1965, Ian learnt to mature early, leaving behind family and friends and beginning his career in service. 

Nowadays, 15 is too young to serve; however, for Ian, the Navy moulded him to become the man he is today.

“After serving as a physical trainer in the defence force, I discharged in 2004 and moved to a farm in Foster. I started meeting people around the town and was led into the position as a volunteer driver,” said Ian. 

“It is interesting, I’m meeting a lot of nice people and forming relationships with the patients. I can assist them in safely travelling to and from specialist or follow up appointments. It’s very rewarding and we have a good laugh.” 

Beginning his career in the defence force, Ian was based in Leeuwin, Western Australia for the first 12 months before being based on HMAS Melbourne and then continuing his training at HMAS Cerberus. 

He then went onto the HMAS Albatross air station before heading out to sea and all-around Australia – finishing his career in Sydney as a warrant officer at 55 years of age. 

“We’re all getting older and the more we can help each other, the better life is. The volunteer service at the South Gippsland Hospital helps assist those who are left to their own devices, those who live alone after immediate family have moved out of the area, but still need extra support,” said Ian. 

“The hospital is just fantastic at supporting those in the small regional community, but we are seeing more and more growth and are always looking for extra volunteers.” 

Having a career built on discipline in the defence force, Ian quickly learnt as a young trainee that helping each other is essential and these morals and values remain with him today as a volunteer.