The ACT Government today recognised six emergency service members for their outstanding commitment and service to the ACT Community.
Mick Gentleman, ACT Minister for Police and Emergency Services, awarded the 2023 ACT Community Protection Medals during a ceremony at the National Arboretum.
“Emergency service personnel exemplify the very best of what our community has to offer,” Mr Gentleman said. “They help protect community, and do it so selflessly,
“Today, we acknowledge the remarkable contribution of five individuals and recognise their unwavering service to our community,
“Their expertise, drive, and can-do attitude help make the territory a better place. On behalf of the ACT Government and Canberra’s residents – thank you.”
The recipients are recognised for their outstanding achievements in training, recruiting, investigations, mentoring, emergency operations, and planning, and exceptional commitment to their agencies for many years.
The five recipients of the 2023 ACT Community Protection Medal are:
- Detective Leading Senior Constable Ashley Laidler – ACT Policing
- Susith Adikari – ACT Ambulance Service
- Commander Bruce Chancellor – ACT Fire and Rescue
- Ian Harding – ACT Rural Fire Service
- Kym Schmid – ACT State Emergency Service
- Richelle Larkins – ACT Emergency Services Agency
The Community Protection Medal was established in 2002 to acknowledge police and emergency services members who have continuously provided outstanding service to the community.
Recipients of this award work or volunteer within ACT Policing, ACT Fire & Rescue, ACT Rural Fire Service, ACT Ambulance Service, ACT State Emergency Service, or the Emergency Services Agency.
