Women in Ambulance Award winners celebrated for service to St John WA

St John WA (SJWA) celebrated its 2024 Women in Ambulance Award winners at a special dinner hosted by Group Chief Executive Officer Kevin Brown last week.  

The Council of Ambulance Authorities Women in Ambulance Awards, announced in March, recognise hardworking and exceptional women in ambulance services across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.  

Six SJWA team members were honoured this year including Nicki Foster, Pamela Toyne, Belinda Marsh, Katy Aviles, Karen Stewart and Lauren D’Arcy. 

Over a combined 80 years of service to SJWA, the awardees have shown dedication and positive leadership across a variety of roles. 

The women and their families took time to enjoy their achievements at a dinner on April 18, alongside Chief People Officer Tamsyn Howard.  

Pamela Toyne has been part of SJWA for 21 years and was recognised for the key role she plays as Event Health Services (EHS) Team Leader. 

Pamela has been an integral member of the EHS team since its inception, ensuring operations run smoothly and the team is well supported.  

St John Wundowie Volunteer Belinda Marsh was recognised for her kindness and compassion, and commitment to mentoring new volunteers.

Area Manager Katy Aviles was recognised for being an approachable, knowledgeable and driven leader who always puts her team first.  

Head of Country Ambulance Operations Karen Stewart was celebrated for her strong leadership over more than a decade.  

Karen has been the brains behind many important initiatives including the current push to achieve Menopause Friendly Accreditation. 

Assistant Regional Manager Nicki Foster was awarded for consistently advocating for extending paramedicine and helping women excel in leadership positions.  

Ambulance Paramedic Lauren D’Arcy was also recognised for leading SJWA’s deaf and hard of hearing awareness projects. 

Lauren has been the driving force behind training ambulance team members in sign language and pushing SJWA to become the first emergency service in Australia to offer Auslan interpreting services.

For more information on the 2024 CAA Women in Ambulance Award winners click here.