Honouring a lifetime of giving back: Keith Clark's story

From joining as a volunteer firefighter in the 1990s to recipient of South Australia’s highest honour for an individual volunteer. Keith Clark’s story is one of service, compassion and community. 

This National Volunteer Week, Keith was awarded the Joy Noble Medal in recognition of more than 12 years volunteering as a Lifeline Crisis Supporter, helping thousands of South Australians through some of life’s hardest moments. Keith has also been a volunteer with the SA Country Fire Service (CFS) for over 30 years. 

Keith joined the CFS after migrating from England in 1989, inspired by the stories he heard following the Ash Wednesday bushfires. “I heard stories about these blokes in yellow, that have done of these wonderful jobs, and they were volunteers and that just didn't compute with me coming from England. The idea of volunteer firefighters putting their lives at risk." 

“I made a promise to myself that if I did get accepted by Australia House to come to Australia to live, I would try and get involved”. 

Following the loss of a fellow CFS volunteer, Keith felt called to do more to support people in crisis, leading him to Lifeline where he continues to provide compassionate, non-judgmental support every week. Keith’s contribution extends far beyond emergency response. He represents the very best of volunteering — kindness, dedication and service to others. 

Congratulations Keith on this well-deserved recognition. We are incredibly proud to call you one of our own.