NSW Ambulance staff from across the Central West have been recognised for their unwavering service, bravery and dedication at a special awards ceremony in Orange.
Among the award recipients was Condobolin paramedic Georgia Birrer who received a Commissioner's Unit Citation for Courage for her role in responding to the Lake Cargelligo shootings in January 2026.
Recognising that a colleague and patient needed immediate assistance, Georgia demonstrated exceptional courage and determination in entering a highly unpredictable environment to assist with clinical intervention for a critically injured patient.
Dunedoo paramedic Jodie Klein was also recognised with a Commissioner's Certificate for her exceptional leadership in helping coordinate the Dare to be Aware road-safety initiative in the region.
The program, delivered in partnership with NSW Police to reduce youth road trauma, expanded significantly across the Central West last year, engaging hundreds of students through Jodie's strong commitment and collaboration with local schools.
Staff and volunteers were also acknowledged with National Emergency Medals (NEM), Long Service and Good Conduct medals at the ceremony.
Among those were Western Sector Associate Director Clinical Operations, Chief Superintendent Lauren Mansell and Acting Zone Manager, Superintendent Andrew DeGabriel who both received a NEM for their vital roles in coordinating NSW Ambulance's response to the 2019/20 Black Summer bushfire crisis.
Security guard Muhammad Taha will also receive a Commissioner's Commendation for Courage (community) for his extraordinary bravery during the Westfield Bondi Junction incident in April 2024.
The Sydney resident has chosen to receive his award at the Orange ceremony so his parents, who are visiting from overseas, can attend.
The Orange Awards and Recognition Ceremony was the second of four events held in 2026 to recognise NSW Ambulance staff and volunteers from across the state. Ceremonies will also be held this year in Tamworth and Sydney.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"Today we recognise the remarkable NSW Ambulance clinicians, support staff and volunteers who serve the Central West, often helping people when they need it most.
"These men and women respond to emergencies at all hours, in all conditions, and they do so with skill, compassion and an unwavering commitment to helping others.
"I extend my sincere congratulations to every award recipient and my deepest thanks for the extraordinary service you provide."
Quotes attributable to NSW Ambulance Interim Chief Executive Clare Beech:
"It is an honour to celebrate the achievements of our award recipients and acknowledge the profound difference their dedication makes to the lives of patients and families across the region.
"Today we recognise acts of courage, exceptional leadership and decades of loyal service. We also acknowledge the vital contributions of our volunteers who stepped forward in moments of crisis to lend assistance and help save lives.
"These awards reflect the very best of NSW Ambulance - people who show up, stand strong and support their communities when they are needed most."
