Almost 100 police officers and civilians have been recognised for their heroic actions following the 2023 Greta bus crash, which claimed 10 lives.
On that tragic day nearly three years ago, Sunday 11 June, emergency services were called to a major incident on Wine Country Drive near the Hunter Expressway off-ramp.
A charter coach returning from a wedding celebration overturned at a roundabout, resulting in a catastrophic single-vehicle accident.
Sadly, Nadene and Kyah McBride, Andrew and Lynan Scott, Kane Symons, Rebecca Mullen, Darcy Bulman, Zach Bray, Tori Cowburn and Angus Craig died, while another 25 people sustained serious injuries.
Passengers were transported by road and air to hospitals in Maitland, Newcastle and Sydney, as first-responders from multiple agencies worked throughout the night in confronting conditions.
It’s now among the worst road transport incidents in recent Australian history.
But, amid the gloom, 73 officers, 23 civilian staff and two members of the public displayed courage, professionalism and compassion in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Those individuals were acknowledged during a special ceremony at the Singleton Civic Centre this week.
Awards presented included the NSW Police Force Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage, Commendation for Service, Certificate of Merit and the Commissioner’s Unit Citation.
“We pause to remember the lives lost in the Greta bus crash and to recognise the extraordinary efforts of those who responded in the most trying of situations,” NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM said.
“Their actions exemplify the very best of public service and humanity.”
Commissioner Lanyon paid tribute to four people who were first on scene, too.
Two of those individuals attended the function on Tuesday 17 March and received the Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage.
“They did not hesitate,” he said.
“They rendered aid, comforted the injured and provided critical support until emergency services arrived.
“Their actions undoubtedly saved lives that night and are a powerful reminder of the selflessness people are capable of.”
Northern Region Commander Assistant Commissioner David Waddell APM said the response to the crash reflected the strength of coordinated emergency and community effort.
“It was marked by professionalism, selflessness and teamwork across multiple agencies and the community,” he explained.
“These awards recognise both individual acts of bravery and the collective effort that ensured victims received care, families were supported, and a community was held together during its darkest hours.
“Your valour, compassion and commitment have made an indelible difference in the lives of others.”
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