NSW Ambulance staff have been recognised for courage, clinical excellence and dedicated service at a special awards ceremony in Tamworth.
Among those honoured was paramedic Jason Purkis, who received a Commissioner’s Certificate for his response to the major incident at Walcha Showground on 15 November 2025.
Purkis was among several paramedics who treated multiple critically injured patients after a demolition derby vehicle lost control and crashed into a spectator grandstand.
Working in heavy rain and fading light as part of a coordinated multi-agency response, paramedics carried out rapid triage and emergency treatment before 13 patients were transported to hospital.
Their professionalism, dedication and composure in challenging and rapidly changing conditions were recognised with a Commissioner’s Certificate.
Labor Spokesperson for Tamworth Anthony D’Adam said the ceremony highlighted the contribution of NSW Ambulance staff to the local community.
“I’m incredibly proud to see our NSW Ambulance staff recognised for their courage, dedication, professionalism, and commitment to keeping our local community safe.
“I also want to acknowledge the paramedics, dispatcher and our local community members who stepped up in critical moments to go above and beyond in emergencies.”
Community members were also recognised at the Tamworth ceremony, including Coffs Harbour resident Brett Neal, who received a Unit Citation for Courage.
Neal and another bystander rescued a woman in her 70s after her vehicle left the road, plunged from a bridge and landed upside down in Coffs Creek.
With the vehicle partially submerged and the woman trapped inside, the pair entered the water, freed her from the wreckage and began CPR.
The woman made a full recovery and has remained in contact with her rescuers.
Minister for Health Ryan Park said the awards recognised the people behind NSW Ambulance.
“Awards ceremonies like these recognise the extraordinary people behind NSW Ambulance who make a difference in the lives of patients every single day.
“Whether responding to a major emergency, supporting their colleagues or serving their communities over many years, each recipient has demonstrated the values and commitment that define NSW Ambulance.
“I congratulate all award recipients and thank them for their dedication, professionalism and service to the people of NSW.”
NSW Ambulance Interim Chief Executive Clare Beech said recipients were recognised for achievements ranging from bravery and clinical excellence to decades of service.
“Our people face complex and challenging situations every day, often in difficult environments and under significant pressure, yet they continue to deliver outstanding care to the communities they serve.
“Today’s recipients have been recognised for a range of achievements, from acts of bravery and clinical excellence through to decades of dedicated service, each reflecting the strength and professionalism of our organisation.
“Behind every award is a story of commitment, teamwork and service to others. We are incredibly proud of each recipient and grateful for the care, compassion and professionalism they bring to NSW Ambulance every day.”
The Tamworth ceremony was the third of four NSW Ambulance awards events being held across the state in 2026, with the final ceremony to be held in Sydney later this year.
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