Paramedic Sally Fenton with Steven Tougher’s family – mum Jillian, wife Madison, dad Jeff and sister Jess. Photo: NSW Government.
A newly graduated paramedic who has received the first Steven Tougher Award in honour of the late ambulance officer has described it as an “absolute privilege”.
The award was introduced this year to honour the life and legacy of the Illawarra man who tragically died while on duty in 2023.
Steven’s wife Madison presented Sally Fenton with the inaugural Steven Tougher Award for Personal and Professional Development at a recent ceremony for NSW Ambulance staff.
The award will be presented annually to a paramedic in their graduating year who demonstrates the same kind, caring qualities as Steven as they start out in the profession he loved.
Sally was recognised for her exceptional growth, commitment to learning and willingness to help others.
Madison said it was a touching tribute that would make their children proud.
“Having an award in Steve’s honour is a nice reminder that Steve’s legacy still lives on and he hasn’t been forgotten, and I think it is important for paramedics to receive this award as it reinforces the values Steve had as a paramedic,” she said.
“Steve would be absolutely delighted with himself, knowing an award is named after him, and Kobi and Lily-Mae will both be proud that their dad has left a long-lasting legacy.”
Sally, who works in Sydney’s inner west, said it was an absolute privilege to receive the award.
“This award carries so much emotional significance and it’s amazing to share this experience with the service and with Steven’s family,” Sally said.
“I saw the impact Steven’s death had on so many friends in the service, and my colleagues often reflect on how much passion he had for his career, for the community and, of course, for his family.”
About 100 NSW Ambulance staff were also recognised for their service and dedication at the end-of-year awards ceremony.
Among the award recipients were critical care paramedics Marty Thomson and Stuart Gourlay, who were presented with the Commissioner’s Valour Medal – NSW Ambulance’s highest bravery award recognising distinguished performance of duties in circumstances of extreme peril.
In August 2024, the pair was winched down from a rescue helicopter, then abseiled 100 metres down a sheer cliff face, to treat a critically injured abseiler in the Blue Mountains.
With the narrow ledge only able to accommodate one of them along with the patient, they took turns hanging suspended in their harnesses to deliver continuous care for 17 hours until they could help facilitate a successful daylight rescue.
Staff and volunteers were also acknowledged with Long Service Good Conduct medals, Commissioner’s Conspicuous Service Medals, Certificates of Recognition and Commissioner’s Honour Awards.
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said it was wonderful to see so many NSW Ambulance staff being honoured, from paramedics to call takers and control centre staff, through to volunteers.
“These dedicated workers are there all day, every day to help those people who may be experiencing their worst day – and the care and compassion they continually show is outstanding and I offer them all my warmest congratulations and heartfelt thanks,” he said.
“I offer a special congratulations to the well-deserving winner of the inaugural Steven Tougher Award, a paramedic who demonstrates the same qualities as Steven – a kind and selfless man who dedicated his life to helping others.”
