Bondi paramedic Norm Spalding retires after 40 years

VETERAN paramedic Norm Spalding, known as “Uncle Norm”, has retired after 40-years. Included among the many he has treated was 18-year-old king-hit victim Daniel Christie who died in 2014.

Chief Inspector Norm Spalding, after 40 years with NSW Ambulance.

• Bondi Public get classrooms back
• New cycle link to Sydney’s east

A VETERAN paramedic who has seen countless tragedies over his 40-year career has hung up his boots.

Norm Spalding earned himself the moniker “Uncle Norm” because of his reputation of going above and beyond for his patients and colleagues.

Earlier this month, the Bondi-based NSW Ambulance Chief Inspector took to the CBD for his last shift, teaming with Senior Assistant Commissioner David Dutton.

They first worked together on New Year’s Eve, 2013, when they treated 18-year-old king-hit victim Daniel Christie.

Chief Inspector Norm Spalding (in the white shirt) in his early days.

“You’ve got to balance that sad stuff against the fun, the humour, the laughs. They’re the things you’ve got to focus on, that and the camaraderie,” Insp Spalding, 63, said.

“NSW Ambulance is a family and supporting each other is paramount, always. I could achieve nothing without the support of others within the organisation — these people are the true heroes in my story.”

London-raised, Insp Spalding worked at several jobs after leaving school, including service in the British Army. He immigrated to Australia and joined NSW Ambulance in November 1976, following in the footsteps of his father who was an “ambo” for many years.

In 2003, he initiated a formal rapid response unit, a precursor to today’s Special Operations Team.

DON DALE ‘SEX ROMP’ FAILED TO SPARK FUNDING

He received several bravery and conspicuous service citations and was awarded the prestigious Ambulance Service Medal in 2009.

“I’ve had a love affair with NSW Ambulance and its people. I’ve loved treating patients from day one,” he said.

“Moving away from the people and the privilege of helping patients will be a huge tug for me.”