A Dungog paramedic’s bravery and leadership during the region’s April storms has been rewarded with the Minister’s Bursary for Excellence on Thank a Paramedic Day.
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Matt Liebregts, who came to Dungog as station manager in April this year, received his award from health minister Jillian Skinner at Campbelltown Ambulance Station on Thursday.
While celebrating with paramedics at the station, Mrs Skinner presented her annual award for excellence to paramedic Liebregts.
Mrs Skinner - who created the $5000 prize last year to fund further education and training of the recipient - said Matt was nominated for his dedication to his colleagues and community.
“Twelve exceptional paramedics were nominated but Matthew really stood out as an extremely worthy recipient,” Mrs Skinner said.
“He has been with NSW Ambulance for six years and became station officer this year.
“As forward commander during the devastating Dungog floods that sadly took three lives, he showed true bravery and supported his community and team through what was a very difficult period.
“Today we officially thank all paramedics and Triple Zero (000) call takers who are there in our hour of need, showing great composure and professionalism.”
Matt came to Dungog with 19 years emergency services experience.
As a paramedic he started at the Paddington station in Sydney before heading to Barraba and Nyngan for four years.
“From there I went back to Hamilton and Boolaroo stations for two years before putting my hand up for the position here at Dungog,” he said.
“My wife is a paramedic too and we just loved our four years in the country.
“I grew up in Coffs Harbour which was still quite rural back then, so we jumped at the chance to come to Dungog.”
