NATIONAL NEWS - The road safety community is immensely saddened by the passing of an industry stalwart. Philip Hull dedicated his life to reducing high fatality rates on South African roads.
For decades, he was a source of strength for those involved in vehicle crashes, during what was often the most challenging moment of their lives.
Philip was a pioneer of road safety. He established critical emergency services as co-founder of Community Medical Services (CMS) and championed systemic changes in road safety through the SA Road Safety Foundation.
Over 42 years, Philip was dedicated to saving lives, particularly at Van Reenen's Pass. Every Festive Season, Philip voluntarily stationed himself as an emergency responder at one of the busiest and most dangerous times on the road.
Under Philip's leadership, CMS consisted of a team of volunteer paramedics and doctors, serving alongside other paramedics, police officers, and firefighters. They provided medical treatment to accident victims within the ‘Golden Hour’- the crucial period before emergency services arrive.
This prompt intervention helped save hundreds of lives. This is despite the impact of this on Philip and the team as first responders in often fatal accidents. Through his efforts, Van Reenen Help Centre was formed and continues to flourish despite many challenges including the loss of their premises.
As co-founder of the SA Road Safety Foundation, Philip passionately advocated for broader systemic changes to road safety. In 2014, the Foundation proposed the establishment of a National Road Safety Authority.
This public-private partnership, independent and equally co-funded by government and the private sector, would ensure sustainability and harness combined resources and expertise.
While his road safety legacy speaks volumes, Philip’s humanitarian efforts are also a testament to the man behind these efforts. The CMS team regularly assisted communities around Van Reenen’s Pass including rural schools, Hope House orphanage in Harrismith, a young accident victim receive life-changing plastic surgery and obtaining glasses for a community member.
Philip was recognised for his ‘heroic resilience,’ receiving the Meritorious Award from the Town of Ladysmith - an honour second only to receiving the Keys to the City. He is described as a ‘visionary with valour’ and, to many, is one of the ‘Angels of Van Reenen.’
When MasterDrive started the Fleet Safety Awards four years ago, there was no hesitation in naming one of the most prestigious Awards in his honour. Winner of Best Organisation, receives the Philip Hull Road Safety Steering Award floating trophy for the year of their reign as the organisation to emulate in road safety.
When the Best Organisation category is awarded this year, it will carry even more significance. The winner can further honour Phillip by ensuring that his vision of road safety inspires future generations of drivers through their own commitment to safer roads.
The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, extends his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Philip. “I had the privilege of knowing Philip for many years and saw his achievements make a difference to road safety firsthand.
“It is without a doubt a huge loss to our road safety community. He was a powerful and dedicated advocate of change on our roads and will be greatly missed by all that had the honour to encounter him during his lifetime,” says Herbert.
Philip will be remembered for his contagious friendliness and immense passion for the cause. His selfless spirit knew no bounds. Multitudes of lives were not only touched by Philip but fundamentally changed to carve out a legacy that will inspire long after he is gone.
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