Congratulations to John Goh from the New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES) for his nomination as a finalist for the Pride of Australia Medal 2012.
The Pride of Australia Medal honors everyd
ay Australians who do extraordinary things in their communities. They are unsung heroes whose contribution to the Australian way of life is not widely known or recognised.
John was nominated for the category of ‘Inspiration’ which recognises teaching professionals in primary or secondary schools, State or independent education community or a role model whose compassion and wisdom while teaching, coaching and mentoring children and young adults has been truly inspiring. It’s clear through John’s commitment to his local school that he ticks all of those boxes!
John, who has been the Principal of Merrylands East Public School for the last seven years, was nominated and selected as a finalist for his dedication and the enthusiasm he has shown t to his local school community.
The teaching veteran of 25 years noticed children dozing off in afternoon classes and decided to trial starting the day earlier. Now his school community is considering a plan for lessons to be held from 8am to 1:15pm before students attend a homework centre until 3pm.
Six years ago John also installed solar panels at Merrylands East Public School to save on electricity costs. He introduced many innovative programs at the multicultural school to ensure all his students are literate in information and communications technologies.
“I happen to be the leader of a great school community who embraces change,” Mr Goh says.
“I want to recognise the hard work and commitment from my teaching staff whom without them, we would not have been able to achieve and implement the programs we have at this school”, he said.
John’s other passion is of course the NSW SES. He has been a proud volunteer of the NSW SES Hornsby Unit for the past 12 years and has been actively involved in operational response to floods and storms.
John is a member of Hornsby’s rescue crew where he responds to flood and storm related jobs. He is also a NSW SES Volunteer Media Liaison Officer which has seen him venture out to the most flood and storm impacted areas of the State. John played a vital role in the media response to the devastating floods which impacted 75 per cent of the State earlier this year by liaising with local media in the flood affected towns of Moree, Wagga Wagga and Hay.
From everyone at the NSW SES, well done John!