Three paramedics from the Parkes branch of the NSW Ambulance Service have been honoured with the National Service Medal, in recognition of their dedication to both the Parkes community and NSW Ambulance.
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The National Medal recognises 15 years of diligent service by members of the Australian Defence Force, and members of the police, fire and ambulance services.
It is Australia's most award civilian medal and it isn't simply for anyone employed in those services, but workers who have diligently worked to protect life or property at risk to themselves.
Parkes Station Officer Graham Turner was proud as punch when talking about Rosalind Orr, Lyn Smith and Daniel Wright - who received their medal from Chief Inspector Peter Rowlands.
"These medals are a reward for an ongoing commitment to this community and themselves," said Graham.
"To be able to keep evolving and learning in this industry over such a long period of time is testament to their dedication."
Graham was also keen to point out that the medals weren't just a reflection of Rosalind, Lyn and Daniel's achievements but also indicative of how much the families of paramedics go through.
"The families of paramedics give up a lot due to the on-call nature of being a paramedic in regional NSW - and they are just as deserving of these medals.
"You can miss a lot of things, like going to school events and kids sport, that most people take for granted, so this acknowledges the sacrifices these guys make."
It says a lot about the Parkes community that people at our Ambulance branch are so keen to stick around, and Graham explains that is down to a mix of different reasons.
"This is great with a healthy workload and a great mix of medical problems and rural trauma that you don't get in the city.
"There probably isn't any type of incident we haven't seen out here and that means the Parkes community benefit from a group of such experienced operators," said Graham.
The town and station are fortunate to have three officers that are born and bred Parkes; of which Rosalind is one alongside former registered nurses Jodie Knights and Rachel Hall who also provided a wealth of diverse experience.
Thank you to Peter, Graham, Rosalind, Lyn, Daniel and all the other NSW Ambulance workers in Parkes for their diligent and knowledgeable service to our community.
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