The late Senior Constable Kelly Ann Foster has posthumously been awarded Australian Bravery Decorations by the Governor-General.
Senior Constable Kelly Foster, aged 39, died following a canyoning incident while off-duty at Mount Wilson on Saturday 2 January 2021.
Snr Cst Foster has been honoured for her bravery at the time of her death, after she went to the aid of a fellow canyoner, who had been swept into a whirlpool in Wollangambe Canyon, and despite her gallant efforts, both she and the 24-year-old woman lost their lives.
Snr Cst Foster joined the NSW Police Force on the 27 August 2010. In May 2016, she was promoted to the rank of Senior Constable and at the time of her death, she was working at Chifley Police District, stationed at Lithgow Police Station.
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM said Snr Cst Foster's exceptional bravery has left a legacy.
"Kelly epitomised what it meant to be a police officer. She upheld our policing traditions of professionalism, commitment, honour and courage," Commissioner Webb said.
"She relished in her work and tirelessly served her community."
The award will be presented to Snr Cst Foster's family at a later date.
The Australian Bravery Decorations recognise courage and service to the community. Two Australian Bravery lists are announced every year. The independent Australian Bravery Decorations Council makes recommendations to the Governor-General regarding who should be recognised and at what level of award.
