He modelled the Wellington Free Ambulance on similar services in Australia funded by Golden Casket lotteries in Brisbane, and Maryborough and also in Newcastle, New South Wales. He had seen the efficient operation of the Brisbane service, and when he saw from his mayoral car in Wellington an accident on Lambton Quay he got out and put his coat on the victim.
He drew parallels with the Wellington Free Ambulance model from services in Australia funded by Golden Casket lotteries in Brisbane, Maryborough, and Newcastle. Upon witnessing an accident while riding in his mayoral vehicle in Wellington, he quickly exited to provide aid to the injured person, demonstrating his commitment to community service.