Governor attends volunteer's funeral

NSW Governor Professor Marie Bashir attended the funeral of St John volunteer Mr Mike Rozier.

She showed her respects to a dedicated St John volunteer and family; as did many representatives from St John across NSW and state and local dignitaries.

"Mike Rozier was a valued and caring member, who dedicated his time to first aid services in the community, and also to youth," said Major General Warren Glenny, commissioner of St John (NSW).

"His compassion was evident by his efforts at the horrific bushfires on the Central Coast.

"I am very pleased that the NSW State Government have recognised his efforts and have offered to fund the funeral," said Mr Glenny.

St John volunteers, in their familiar black and white uniform, formed a guard in honour of Mike to celebrate his volunteerism and commitment to helping the community.

Mike Rozier collapsed at Woy Woy Hospital with a heart attack while waiting to collect equipment required for the Ettalong evacuation centre at approximately 9 o'clock on January 1.

Mr Rozier was treated by hospital and NSW Ambulance staff but unable to be revived.

Member for Peats Ms Marie Andrews also paid tribute to Mr Rozier, a member of the Peninsula Division of the St John Ambulance Service.

Premier Mr Morris Iemma also acknowledged his outstanding contribution to the community as a volunteer in the St John Ambulance Service when he visited the disaster areas two days after the crisis.

The Premier then announced that the State Government would meet the funeral expenses of the late Mike Rozier in appreciation of Mike's selfless work as a volunteer.

Not only was Mr Rozier a member of the St John Ambulance, he was also responsible for the establishment of the organisation's Brisbane Water Cadets, according to Ms Andrews.

"Mike will be sadly missed but long remembered for his deep concern for others," Ms Andrews said.

Member for Robertson Mr Jim Lloyd also paid tribute to the service and dedication of Mr Rozier.

"My sincere condolences, on behalf of all Central Coast residences, go to his family and friends at this very difficult time," Mr Lloyd said.

"I will be attending Mr Rozier's funeral to honour a man who had dedicated his life to assisting others, particularly through his service with the St John Ambulance."

Mr Rozier's funeral was held on January 11 at the Gosford Anglican Church.

Press releases, January 9 and 10 St John Ambulance NSW Jim Lloyd, Member for Robertson Marie Andrews, Member for Peats