The hero cop who shot dead the Westfield Bondi Junction knifeman after he killed six people and wounded others has been nominated for NSW’s n of the Year.
NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott, 39, chased after and shot dead Joel Cauchi after he went on a murderous rampage at Westfield Bondi Junction on April 13.
The senior officer, who is attached to the eastern suburbs police command, was near the busy shopping centre as the horrific attack unfolded.
Inspector Scott entered the Westfield by herself, sprinting through the top level of the complex before coming face-to-face with Cauchi, who was brandishing a 30cm knife.
Witnesses said Inspector Scott yelled at Cauchi ‘put it down’ before he lunged at her, and she fired, shooting him in the chest.
Inspector Scott’s bravery has put her in the running for the top honour, making her one of four candidates for NSW’s n of the Year.
‘Inspector Scott displayed unparalleled bravery and dedication to service during a mass casualty event at a Sydney shopping centre,’ the nomination read.
‘Without hesitation or regard for her own safety, Inspector Scott responded with exceptional courage, not waiting for backup and choosing to face the threat head-on and alone, a decision that would define her heroism.’
‘Her actions saved countless lives and showcased her unwavering leadership in the face of extreme danger.
‘Inspector Scott’s fearless and decisive actions are an inspiration to all ns.’
Inspector Scott was awarded the Commissioner’s Valour Award following her bravery at the Bondi Junction stabbing attack.
She was also met King Charles and Queen Camila during their six-day tour of last month.
On their final day, the royal couple attended a traditional n barbecue at Parramatta which was hosted by NSW Premier Chris Minns and his wife Anna.
Inspector Scott was one of the ‘inspiring ns’ introduced to the King and Queen during the picnic event.
The King had a sombre meeting with Inspector Scott who briefly told him about the terrifying ordeal.
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Web, who also attended the event, said it was ‘fitting’ for Inspector Scott to meet the King and Queen.
‘It’s a privilege to be invited today among a very privileged group of people, and I look forward to meeting the King Queen,’ she told NewsWire.
‘Obviously the events of April earlier this year were played out across the world. I think it’s fitting that the King and Queen have an opportunity to meet her.’
Martha Jabour OAM, who established the Homicide Victims Support Group in 1993 to fare for families and friends of homicide victims in NSW, has also been nominated as NSW’s Local Hero.
Ms Jabour was nominated for her work in supporting the overseas families of the Bondi Junction attack victims.
The victims included new mum Ashlee Good, 38, Dawn Singleton, 25, mother-of-two Jade Young, local artist Pikria Darchia, 55, Westfield security guard and Pakistani refugee Faraz Tahi, 30, and Chinese national and student Yixuan Cheng.
Inspector Scott was nominated for NSW’s of the Year alongside journalist and author Jess Hill, Youth advocate and educator Daniel Principe and Kindness Factory founder Kath Koschel.