Wellington Free Ambulance Remembers Heroic Paramedic

Wellington Free Ambulance is holding a special memorial service on Saturday June 14 at the site where ambulance officer Sydney Barlow died in the course of duty 50 years ago.

On June 14 1964, Sydney aged 52, attempted to rescue two boys, Lance Voss and Wayne Niven from a tunnel in Khandallah where they were trapped and struggling to breathe after a coal gas leak.

All three died in the tunnel.

A wreath-laying ceremony will be held at the entrance to the tunnel in Muldive Street, Khandallah at 10 a.m. this Saturday June 14.
Among those attending will be Ray Edwards, an ambulance officer who took part in the rescue attempt 50 years ago, and Alan Wilson, the great nephew of Sydney.

Alan has been working for Wellington Free for nearly 27 years and says his choice of work was partly driven by the memory of Sydney.
Diana Crossan, Chief Executive of WFA says it is important to mark the anniversary of this day.

“Sydney Barlow was a brave man wholly committed to his work. The wreath laying ceremony is also to acknowledge the boys who lost their lives. We extend our hearts and thoughts to the families of all three involved in this tragedy.

“I am inspired by the professionalism and commitment of the men and women paramedics who head out the door every day to help the people of Wellington. Where would we be without them,” says Ms Crossan.

ends

© Scoop Media