The exceptional service of five Corrective Services NSW officers at Parramatta, Windsor, Cessnock, Sydney and Goulburn has been acknowledged in this year’s Australia Day Honours List.
Minister for Corrections Geoff Lee congratulated officers Sara Wilcher, John Harrison, Derek Brindle, Cathy Petrovski and Evan Dougall who were awarded the Australian Corrections Medal for their distinguished service and dedication to corrections.
“These officers have shown outstanding leadership and professionalism ensuring our correctional facilities are safe, efficient and committed to improving outcomes for offenders,” Mr Lee said.
“They should be very proud recipients of this prestigious honour; I thank them for their service to NSW and hope their dedication continues to encourage and inspire their colleagues.”
Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Kevin Corcoran PSM said the five officers contribute to corrections in a variety of ways, from providing security and training to helping rehabilitate offenders in custody and the community.
“Sara, John, Derek, Cathy and Evan demonstrate the very best qualities in corrections staff – they’re motivated, inspiring and committed to improving both our workplaces and the rehabilitation prospects for offenders,” Mr Corcoran said.
“Congratulations on this achievement; you have all earned this prestigious medal and we’re very proud to have you working for us.”
Sara Wilcher AMC, who is a highly experienced Unit Leader at the Parramatta Community Corrections office said she is thankful for the opportunities she has had in her career.
“To be nominated for the Australian Corrections Medal is just mind blowing. I am privileged to work in a Department filled with talented, dedicated and generous people,” Ms Wilcher said.
John Harrison, who is the General Manager of the Security Operations Group, said he was humbled by the accolade and credits his success to the support of his family and colleagues.
“I’m honoured to join past recipients, most of whom have been colleagues, all of whom have made important contributions to CSNSW,” John said.
The Australian Corrections Medal for distinguished service and leadership was introduced in 2018 and is awarded in the Australia Day and Queen’s Birthday Honours lists. The five recipients will be invested with their medals at NSW Government House at a later date.
Recipient pictures and biographies available to download here.
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