Eight NSW police officers will today be recognised for their actions in responding to a building explosion at Wentworthville in 2013.
The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), announced 39 Australian Bravery Decorations to recognise the courageous acts of 66 people
Included in the list are eight NSW police officers who have been awarded a Group Bravery Citation.
On Tuesday 8 October 2013, the eight officers responded to an explosion – and subsequent fire and partial building collapse – on Station Street at Wentworthville.
After clearing the area, the officers assisted a man who was trapped in the rubble.
The eight officers were taken to hospital and were treated for various injuries including extensive burns and smoke inhalation.
The eight officers to receive the Group Bravery Citation are:
Senior Constable Domenico Barillaro
Senior Constable Chantelle Hannah
Senior Constable Joshua Jones
Senior Constable Todd Kirk
Senior Constable Ergun Koksal,
Senior Constable Kelly Scholes
Senior Constable K
Detective Sergeant Sean Martin Heagney
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM said although time has passed since the incident, the selfless actions of the officers involved must be recognised.
"Every shift for our frontline officers is unpredictable and I am so proud of the conduct of the officers involved in this incident, they represent the best of the NSW Police Force.
"They truly went above and beyond, putting the safety and wellbeing of others ahead of their own and are a credit to the organisation.
"I am proud of the officers and thank each of them for their service."
Two Australian Bravery lists are announced each year. The independent Australian Bravery
Decorations Council makes recommendations to the Governor-General regarding who
should be recognised and at what level of award.
