This morning NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) employees, families and the NSW Minister for the Environment gathered in the Blue Mountains to remember staff who have lost their lives protecting the community.
A service was held at the NPWS Staff Memorial at Govett's Leap in Blue Mountains National Park where the 11 names on the Honour Roll were read in front of family and friends.
World Ranger Day is marked worldwide to honour all those who make their life's work the protection of our environment for future generations.
Please attribute quotes to the NSW Minister for Environment, Penny Sharpe:
"Our dedicated NPWS staff are often on the frontline of major environmental disasters. We are grateful for their courage and commitment to protect and defend our natural and cultural heritage every day.
"With sorrow we acknowledge those that have lost their lives and pay our respects to their families and friends.
"We also acknowledge those staff who have been injured at work and those who mourn the loss of their friends and colleagues."
National Parks and Wildlife Service Honour Roll
Jack Erskine, Regional Superintendent, South East Region, 1978
Ian Mahood, Wildlife Research Officer, Royal National Park, 1981
David Earle, Conservation Architect, Historical Resources Subsection, NPWS, 1986
Mark Cupit, Field Officer, Sydney North Area, 2000
Clare Deane, Field Officer, Sydney North Area, 2000
George Fitzsimmons, Senior Field Officer, Sydney North Area, 2000
Erik Furlan, Field Officer, Sydney North Area, 2000
Bryce Laut, Senior Ranger, Manning Hastings Area, 2008
Aaron Harbor, Ranger, Dorrigo Area, 2009
John Garland, Field Officer, Upper Hunter Area, 2011
Richard Oswald, Crewperson, Park Air, 2022
We thank and honour them for their service.