Australia Day 2026

Well-regarded for her calm and capable response, senior manager foundation and specialist educator Kirsty England has been recognised for her dedication over 25 years to frontline clinical roles and paramedic education across regional and metropolitan areas.

“I have the privilege of working with an incredibly talented team of professional, dedicated and innovative educators who inspire me every day,” she said.

“I wouldn’t be here today without them. I am also very grateful for the guidance provided to me by my colleagues and mentors throughout all of NSW Ambulance who have encouraged me and believed in me throughout my paramedicine journey.”

Bernard Coren has worn many hats during the past 22 years including intensive care paramedic, station officer, duty operations manager, sector duty operations manager, cardiac project officer and is currently the Associate Director of Service Planning.

“Working for NSW Ambulance and NSW Health more widely has brought me many professional and personal rewards, and meaningful connections,” he said. I feel privileged to collaborate with others on shaping the health system of the future.”

An astounding 45 years in the service, and one of our earliest flight paramedics, Terry Savage, who is also an intensive care paramedic, was integral in establishing NSW Ambulance’s aeromedical and rescue response capabilities.

“This job has been challenging at times, but knowing that I have been able to play a positive role in people’s hours of need is something that few jobs can offer, and those moments make it all worthwhile,” he said.

Martin Pearce was recognised for his invaluable experience as an intensive care, motorcycle, and critical care helicopter paramedic – which has seen him undertake hundreds of missions throughout NSW, offshore and in remote wilderness locations. The lead trainer for remote area vertical rope access, his dedication to safety and best practice has been instrumental in championing vertical rope access procedures.

“As an educator there are few moments more satisfying than hearing of a mission that has gone well and have the CCP say, ‘it was just like the training’.”

Congratulations to you all!