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'Complete disrespect': Horrific act after man gave his life in bid to save injured hiker

A plaque commemorating a NSW paramedic who died saving the life of a hiker has been stolen.

Mick Wilson’s bronze plaque was recently stolen from Budderoo National Park, south of Sydney, according to NSW Ambulance.

“In what can only be described as the lowest of acts, the bronze plaque honouring the life and the sacrifice of our much loved colleague Mick Wilson has been stolen,” NSW Ambulance wrote on Facebook.

“NSW Ambulance Commissioner Dr Dominic Morgan described the theft as the lowest of acts.”

A plaque remembering NSW paramedic Mick Wilson.
This plaque remembering NSW paramedic Mick Wilson has been stolen. Source: NSW Ambulance

Dr Morgan added the theft “is an appalling act of complete disrespect to his memory”, along with “his family and his colleagues who continue to mourn his loss every day”.

NSW Ambulance said it is working to provide a replacement plaque.

Mr Wilson died on Christmas Eve 2011 while attempting a helicopter winch rescue of an injured canyoner at Bridal Veil Falls.

He died from pelvic injuries and haemorrhaging, the ABC reported.

Mr Wilson’s wife Kellie told The Daily Telegraph the plaque’s theft “defies belief, frankly”.

“It’s just so bitterly disappointing that a memorial, ­intended to honour the life and the sacrifice of someone who was humble, courageous and dedicated, was taken in such a manner,” she told the paper.

NSW Ambulance paramedic Mick Wilson is pictured.
Mr Wilson died on Christmas Eve 2011 while attempting a helicopter winch rescue of an injured canyoner at Bridal Veil Falls. Source: NSW Ambulance

Her disappointment was echoed by people on Facebook, who called the theft “disgraceful”.

“What a filthy low act,” one woman wrote.

“Deadbeats,” one man wrote.

“He was a hero and I hope the plaque will be replaced.”

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