Parramatta Lord Mayor’s Christmas party for police, ambos, firefighters

The Christmas season has arrived and Parramatta’s emergency service workers were treated to an early, well-deserved celebration after another gruelling year on the frontline.

Emergency service workers, from police to ambos and fireys got a chance to relax and be thanked for their relentless work at the Parramatta Lord Mayor Community Christmas Celebration at CommBank Stadium.

Lord Mayor Steven Issa hosted the gathering for frontline and community organisations as a heartfelt thank you for their work throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Guests from NSW Health, NSW Police Force, NSW Ambulance, Fire and Rescue NSW, the SES and 1st/15th Royal NSW Lancers were among those invited to attend the early yuletide bash on November 18.

“Our frontline workers have made an incredible sacrifice to look after our community through the pandemic, and I want to acknowledge them for their hard work – especially over the past 18 months,” Cr Issa said.

“As we come out of lockdown, and the festive season approaches, we have shifted our focus away from our traditional Christmas celebration, which recognises the achievements of council and its governing body, to an event that expresses our appreciation for those who have made a difference in our lives.’’

Santa and others recognised the work of emergency service workers, including police from Parramatta, Cumberland, Auburn, The Hills and Ryde Police Area commands at the CommBank Stadium event.

Police take some time off from the beat at the Christmas party.

NSW Ambulance’s Supt Ian Johns, Supt Andrew Edwards, Inspector Kevin McSweeney and Supt Jennine Kiely have had a gruelling year thanks to Covid.

Fire and Rescue NSW representatives at the party.

Members of the Lucky African Dance group entertain guests.

Members of Fire & Rescue NSW looking dapper in their non-work attire.

Parramatta Lord Mayor Steven Issa, centre, recognises police at the festivities.

Lord Mayor Steven Issa, centre, with NSW Ambulance’s Andrew Edwards, Andrew McAlpine, Supt Ian Johns, Jennine Kiely and Kevin McSweeney.

Parramatta Lord Mayor Steven Issa and Lady Mayoress Jasmine Issa present a $10,000 cheque from the council to Josie Dincel of Ward Angels, a not-for-profit community organisation run by volunteers. Ward Angels’ mission is to make life easy and comfortable for sick children and their families by providing support through comfort items, entertainment and essential care.

Parramatta Lord Mayor Steven Issa and his wife Jasmine Issa show their appreciation for guests at the CommBank Christmas party.

Our frontline heroes gathered for the party at CommBank Stadium.