Regional NSW Ambulance staff recognised for outstanding service and bravery
NSW Ambulance staff from across the Hunter and New England region have been recognised for their unwavering service and dedication at a special awards ceremony in Newcastle.
Staff and volunteers were acknowledged with Long Service Good Conduct medals, Commissioner’s Conspicuous Service Medals, Certificates of Appreciation and Commissioner’s Honour Awards.
Inspector Kay Armstrong was one of those honoured for her dedication to duty and leadership during a distinguished 30-year career. She has been instrumental in numerous emergency responses, including the 2019-20 bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, and has been heavily involved in programs to promote female leadership within NSW Ambulance.
Community members were also recognised for their bravery during emergencies, including Bella Wickens who in November 2022, aged just four, rang Triple Zero (000) and gave clear directions after she was unable to wake her mother Jessica, who’d suffered a concussion the previous night.
The Hunter New England Awards and Recognition Ceremony is the second of four events being held in 2025 to recognise NSW Ambulance staff and volunteers from across the state. A ceremony was held in Dubbo in March, with subsequent ceremonies to be held in Ballina and Sydney.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:
“This ceremony is about acknowledging the extraordinary courage and quick-thinking of NSW Ambulance staff who have exceeded in their rolesto serve their communities.
“From paramedics to call centre officers to volunteers, each person plays a pivotal role in responding to emergencies across the state and caring for members of the public at their time of greatest need.
“I’d like to offer my congratulations to everybody recognised today, your dedication and fortitude is admirable and always appreciated.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:
“I am delighted to stand here today to recognise the incredible contributions of our award recipients who tirelessly provide critical care in life-threatening situations.
“I’m proud to also honour many of our paramedics for their long and diligent service, as well as community members who have selflessly stepped in to help others, by administering first aid to strangers or remaining calm while seeking vital assistance for loved ones.
“I’d like to congratulate all our recipients for the actions they have taken that have had a positive impact on so many lives.”