NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service remembers those who lost their lives

On World Ranger Day 2023, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has remembered all NPWS staff who have lost their lives while serving the community.

The dedicated and committed NSW National Parks and Wildlife staff are often on the frontlines of fires and floods.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service share “we are grateful for their bravery and commitment and the risks they take to conserve and defend our natural and cultural heritage.

“With sorrow, we acknowledge those who have lost their lives during service, or as a result of their service, and pay our respects to their families.

“We also acknowledge the pain of NSW National Parks and Wildlife staff who've been injured at work and the sadness of those who mourn the loss of their friends and colleagues.”

An honour roll of 11 names was read during a service at the NPWS Memorial at Govetts Leap in the Blue Mountains, to commemorate their lives.

National Parks and Wildlife Service Honour Roll
Jack Erskine, Ranger, Kosciuszko National Park, 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
Claire 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 Harber, Ranger, Dorrigo Area, 2009
John Garland, Field Officer, Upper Hunter Area, 2011
Richard Oswald, Crewperson, ParkAir, 2022

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service added "we thank and honour them for their service to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service."

Image. Blue Mountains national park Govetts Leap lookout