Mark Shelton,Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management
For their efforts to rescue and assist those in needs, a number of Tasmanians have received the highest professional honours at this year’s National Search and Rescue Council’s Australian Search and Rescue Awards.
Tasmania’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter crew scored the top award, the Professional Search and Rescue Award, for their outstanding efforts rescuing a seriously injured man at Cape Hauy in February.
The rescue crew was made up of individuals from Tasmania Police, Ambulance Tasmania and Rotorlift.
I congratulate Senior Constable Chris Williams, Constable Nikki Mackintosh, Intensive Care Flight Paramedic Emily Byers, Pilot Chris Fahey, Senior Constable Callum Herbert, Constable Andrew Oakden, Constable Cameron Rennie, and Constable Phillip Vanderwal for their outstanding efforts.
In addition, five Tasmanians received the Non-professional Search and Rescue Award for their efforts in rescuing a woman who fell at Parsons Falls in April.
It was observed by attending paramedics that the quick decision-making and response from Athol Beer, Stewart Geard, Craig Neville, Anita Denholm and Kade Wooldrage made a significant impact, and almost certainly saved the patient’s life.
On behalf of all Tasmanians, I would like to thank all award recipients for their courageous and selfless acts, which represent the very best of our community.
