List of recipients of the Star of Courage

Star of Courage



Medal and ribbon

The following is a list of recipients of the Australian Star of Courage.
Source: itsanhonour.gov.au

Name Date Notes
Allen , Elizabeth Florence Elizabeth Florence Allen 30 Mar 1979 5 Confronted armed and dangerous person in hospital ward.[1]
Anderson , Frank Frank Anderson 27 Oct 1992 66 (March 1993)[2][3]
Anderton , Luke Alan Luke Alan Anderton 27 Aug 2012 143 In the evening of 16 April 2011, Senior Constable Luke Anderton attended a two car accident at Clyde North, where he found some people trapped and one vehicle resting on its roof. He ran to the upturned vehicle and, smelling strong fumes, saw a man twisted and trapped inside the cabin. After advising bystanders to move away, Senior Constable Anderton crawled inside the cabin and elevated the man’s head, despite leaking fuel falling onto his head and gas discharging from a cylinder into the vehicle. Although he was feeling dizzy and nauseous from the fumes, Senior Constable Anderton remained with the man for almost 40 minutes until he was cut free from the vehicle by emergency services. By his actions, Senior Constable Luke Alan Anderton displayed conspicuous courage[4][5]
Badger , Stephen William Stephen William Badger 5 Sep 1988 38 Attempted rescue of surfer swept against rocks in rough seas.[6]
Bailey , Scott Daniel Scott Daniel Bailey 7 May 1992 63 On the afternoon of 6 July 1991 Scott Bailey, then aged 17, swam through dangerous seas at Cape Freycinet, Western Australia to assist a drowning fisherman. Scott, who was visiting Cape Freycinet with his father and brother, was one of several people in the vicinity when a fisherman fell eight metres from rocks into a heavy sea. Despite cold conditions, a strong current and large swell, Scott stripped, dived 10 metres into the sea, and swam for 15 minutes carrying a sealed bucket and hauling a rescue line. On reaching the unconscious fisherman, Scott spent some time attempting, unsuccessfully, to revive him and then commenced bringing him back to shore. During the return journey the rescue line parted and Scott twice had the fisherman pulled from his grip by rough waves. Scott's condition was reduced by these events and he was forced to abandon his attempt to bring the fisherman to the shore. Scott needed to be assisted from the water by family members and others participating in the rescue attempt from the shore.[3][7]
Bennett , Kevin Allan Kevin Allan Bennett 12 Jun 1987 31 Attempted rescue of school boy at Rocky Point, Eagle Bay, Western Australia[8]
Bichler , Garry Michael Garry Michael Bichler 30 Oct 1996 87 C of Aust Gazette No. S81. 12 March 1997[9]
Boughton , Ian Maurice Ian Maurice Boughton 11 Oct 1995 85 [10] On 20 April 1995 Senior Constable Boughton put himself at danger to rescue a diver trapped inside an underwater inlet cooling pipe at the BHP Pumphouse at Port Waratah, Newcastle, New South Wales. The diver was making a routine inspection on the inlet pipe prior to fitting a filter when he was drawn in feet first. The above-water crew, seeing irregularities on the air hose equipment pulled on the security line which broke free from the diver, dislodging his face mask and allowed him to be sucked further into the pipe at great speed. Constable Boughton responded to a call for assistance and although he had no previous underwater diving experience entered the water in a rescue attempt, after first ensuring that the pumps had been switched off. He descended 5 metres below the surface of the water before he located the pipe, which was 1 metre in diameter but had been reduced considerably by the build up of crustation growth and algae. Carrying a torch Constable Boughton entered the pipe and travelled 3 metres vertically to a bend where visibility was reduced to only centimetres. After moving around the bend and a few metres along the horizontal arm of the pipe he located the diverts hand. He tugged at the unconscious diver a number of times before he was able to pull him free and drag him back through the pipe to the open water where he was lifted from the water.[11]
Boukouvalas, ConstantinosConstantinos Boukouvalas 5 Apr 1995 82 Rescue of children from burning cabin at Caravan Park, Sutto[12]
Bowen , Wayne Thomas Wayne Thomas Bowen 26 Nov 1982 17 Assisted in rescue of passengers from crashed helicopter[13]
Bowman , Robert James Robert James Bowman 30 Mar 1979 6 Rescued two men from burning cottage[14]
Boyle , Dominic Dominic Boyle 9 Apr 1997 89 Gaz S179 1997[15]
Brackenrig , Jeffery David Jeffery David Brackenrig 12 Oct 1994 80 Rescue from shark at Julian Rocks, Byron Bay, New South Wales[16]
Bradshaw , Paul Paul Bradshaw 31 Jan 1986 26 Rescued man from burning vehicle after accident[17]
Brassey , Spencer John Spencer John Brassey 5 Apr 1995 83 Rescue of man being stabbed by intoxicated man at Kings Cross, New South Wales[18]
Breen , David Ashley David Ashley Breen 21 Feb 2005 120 [19] On the afternoon of 21 November 2003, Mr Breen rescued a man from a burning vehicle after an accident at Mount Inkerman, Queensland. Mr Breen was driving north along the Bruce Highway when he noticed an approaching car drift onto the other side of the road, narrowly missing his own vehicle. The car careered across a concrete culvert toward a raised train carriageway before landing upside down on the tracks. Mr Breen saw the accident in his rear vision mirror and called 000 emergency. He then heard the female driver, who had escaped, scream that her husband was trapped in the overturned vehicle. Mr Breen rushed, bare foot, to help. As he approached the car, he noticed smoke coming from the engine bay and that the grass surrounding the car was alight. Mr Breen tried all the doors of the car but they were jammed shut. To free the man he climbed through the front passenger window and dragged him from the burning vehicle. Another person who had arrived on the scene helped Mr Breen move the man to safety. Within 30 seconds the car exploded. In quick succession it then exploded a second time. David lost his hat in the fire, which he also attempted to save. This was later retrieved by the couple, framed with the newspaper clipping of the accident and presented to David. By his actions, Mr Breen displayed conspicuous courage.
Brown , Michael Thomas Michael Thomas Brown 27 Feb 2006 126 [3][20]
Burns , Trevor Ronald Trevor Ronald Burns 25 Mar 2013 144 [21] On 30 October 2010, Mr Burns rescued a woman from a shark attack north east of Garden Island, near Rockingham, Western Australia. The woman was a female dive guide with a group of about twelve tourists swimming with dolphins as part of a Rockingham Wild Encounters tour. As the woman was engaging dolphins to interact with the tourists she was suddenly and violently attacked by a three-metre shark. Mr Burns, who was snorkeling with other members of the tour group, saw the violent attack, and immediately grabbed the shark’s tail in an attempt to pull it off her. As he held on, the shark began to thrash about, aggressively throwing Mr Burn around in the water. Soon after, the shark released its grip on the woman, and swam off. After hearing a warning alarm coming from the boat, all of the swimmers swam to the boat except for Mr Burns. Despite a large amount of blood in the water, and the whereabouts of the shark unknown, he dove down about four metres to the injured woman who was sinking below him. Mr Burns pulled her to the surface and swam a short distance to the boat where he lifted her onto the back landing amongst others who were trying to get out of the water. Mr Burns ensured everyone was safe before he left the water. The woman survived the attack but received significant injuries to her legs which required over 200 stitches and several operations.
Carmody , Francis Xavier Francis Xavier Carmody 28 Apr 1989 42 9 August 1989 for assisting with the disarming of an armed man who had wounded and killed workers in an Australia Post building in Melbourne during the Queen Street massacre.
Carter , Colin Wrenville Colin Wrenville Carter 6 Feb 1981 14 (Posthumous award). 6 May 1981. On 2 December 1979, Mr. Carter was asked to help contain a bush fire in the Mount White-Calga area, New South Wales. With 3 others they cut a fire break. A change of wind direction caused the fire to change direction making it necessary for all to...
Casey , Lorraine Mary Lorraine Mary Casey 22 Aug 2011 140 On 7 February 2009, Ms Casey rescued her friend and colleague during the ‘Black Saturday bushfires' at Kinglake, Victoria. In the midst of the Black Saturday bushfires, Ms Casey, a member of the Country Fire Authority (CFA), assisted her friend to defend her house in Bald Spur Road, Kinglake from the firestorm. With safety considerations paramount, her friend asked Ms Casey to leave as the fire front approached. Ms Casey managed to return to the Kinglake CFA shed and remained until the fire front had past. As darkness approached, Ms Casey became aware that her friend’s situation had become dire, so decided to drive back to assist. She drove through the fire-stricken forest until she was unable to travel further due to the fallen and burning trees which had blocked Bald Spur Road. Using a torch, Ms Casey left the safety of her vehicle and walked about 600 metres along the road until she found her friend, badly injured and almost unconscious. In very difficult conditions, Ms Casey assisted her friend back to the vehicle and again negotiated fallen trees to return to the main road and back to the CFA shed. With no ambulances available, local police officers were able to transport the woman to Whittlesea, Victoria to receive urgently needed medical attention. By her actions, Ms Casey displayed conspicuous courage.[3]
Champion , Timothy David Timothy David Champion 14 Feb 2000 102 Police Marine and Rescue Services, Tasmania Police
Chea , Earpeng Earpeng Chea 19 May 1999 101 SC. Gaz S370. 23 Aug 99
Chillemi , Tiani Michelle Tiani Michelle Chillemi 26 Oct 1993 76 Attempted rescue of woman who was being stabbed at Moranbah, Queensland
Clark , Barbara Ann Barbara Ann Clark 18 Apr 1991 56 Rescue from armed offender at Wynnum West, Queensland
Clements , Shaun Jason Shaun Jason Clements 8 Mar 2004 117 Corporal Clements was a crew member of a tank taking part in an Australian Army training exercise at the Shoalwater Bay Military Training Area in Queensland.[3]
Clohessy , Ben Michael Ben Michael Clohessy 17 Oct 2003 113
Cole , Michael Paul Michael Paul Cole 26 Oct 1993 77
Collins , Alfred Alfred Collins 9 Aug 1985 24
Cook , Larry James Larry James Cook 21 Dec 1988 41 For the attempted rescue of a windsurfer in heavy seas off Spoon Bay near Wamberal Beach, Central Coast, New South Wales.
Cook , Robert Robert Cook 17 Mar 2008 132 On 29 July 2006, Mr Cook shielded an Australian passenger during a plane crash at St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America. Whilst visiting and working in the US, a young Australian woman joined a group of people to make a tandem skydive. Her instructor was Mr Robert Cook with whom she would be harnessed for the skydive. Soon after take-off from an airport near St Louis, Missouri, the plane experienced serious engine malfunctions and the pilot attempted to return to the airstrip. Mr Cook, an experienced instructor, turned to the woman and calmly told her that the plane was likely to crash. Instructing her to focus solely on his instructions, Mr Cook clipped his skydive harness to hers, demanding that the woman wrap herself around him so that he could cushion her fall. As the aircraft lost altitude and crashed through a tree, the woman remembers being jostled around and slipping to the floor of the plane. Mr Cook pulled her back onto the seat and again pressed her against him. Moments later the plane hit an electrical wire and, as it plunged towards the ground, Mr Cook tightened his grip around the woman, acting as a human shield to protect her. Having entirely understood the implications of his actions, and as a result of his selfless courage, the woman, although seriously injured in the crash, survived the impact. Sadly Mr Cook died instantly as a result of his injuries. By his actions, Mr Cook displayed conspicuous bravery, thereby losing his life.[22]
Critchlow , Phillip Anthony Phillip Anthony Critchlow 31 Jan 1987 30 Attempted to rescue man in rough seas
Cullinan , Patrick Alexander Patrick Alexander Cullinan 6 Nov 1987 35 16 March 1988. By his action Major Cullinan displayed conspicuous courage in most perilous circumstances by rescuing a German mountain climber, at an altitude of 8000m, on the summit ridge of Broad Peak in the Karakoram mountain range, Pakistan.[23]
Cumming , Grant John Grant John Cumming 14 Feb 2000 103
De Maria , Sandro Sandro De Maria 12 Aug 2002 110
Dengate , Gavin Gavin Dengate 29 Apr 1998 95 Rescue of boy from flooded underground storm water drains
Doyle , David John David John Doyle 6 Aug 2001 107
Dwyer , Alan David Alan David Dwyer 30 Oct 1991 59 Boral Liquid Petroleum Gas storage facility fire and explosions at St Peters, New South Wales[3]
Eames , Matthew Andrew Matthew Andrew Eames 12 Apr 1994 79 Attempted rescue of man from sea at Salmon Holes via Albany, Western Australia
Eckert , Perry Philip Perry Philip Eckert 28 Apr 1989 43
Edwards , Rodney Lew Rodney Lew Edwards 16 Mar 1988 37 Queensland Police Service. - 16 March 1988. By his actions Constable Edwards displayed conspicuous courage in most perilous circumstances.
Eldridge , Mark Mark Eldridge 26 Nov 1982 18 Rescued passengers from burning helicopter after crash
Elliott , Robert John Robert John Elliott 9 Apr 1997 90 GAZ S374 1997
Farley , Brian Daniel Brian Daniel Farley 6 Aug 2001 108
Fenwick , Robert McKenzie Robert McKenzie Fenwick 19 Mar 2012 142 Mr Robert McKenzie Fenwick deceased, late of Orange, New South Wales. On the afternoon of 5 January 2011, Nurse, Mr Robert Fenwick and a female colleague were attending to a patient at a hospital in Orange. For reasons of privacy, the female nurse left the bedroom, when another patient entered through the door armed with a steak knife in each hand. He lunged at the female nurse causing a severe laceration to her right hand, nearly severing her little finger. The nurse yelled for help. Mr Fenwick immediately left the room and placed himself between the offender and his colleague, when he was stabbed in the chest, receiving multiple lacerations to his body. Despite his injuries, Mr Fenwick, and his patient, who came to assist, forced the offender outside. Mr Fenwick grabbed a broom and defended himself with it. The offender backed off and security staff apprehended him. Sadly, after being transported to Westmead Hospital, Mr Fenwick died the next morning. His colleague received surgery to reattach her little finger. By his actions, Mr Fenwick displayed conspicuous courage.
Fiechtner , Rodney Joseph Rodney Joseph Fiechtner 27 Feb 2006 127 [3]
Fletcher , Kevin James Kevin James Fletcher 30 Oct 1991 60 Boral Liquid Petroleum Gas storage facility fire and explosions at St Peters, New South Wales[3]
Gianoncelli , Ronald Ronald Gianoncelli 15 Mar 2010 138 On the morning of 31 January 2004, Mr Gianoncelli intervened during an armed robbery at a newsagency in Koondoola, Western Australia.[3]
Gioia , Anthony Dominic Anthony Dominic Gioia 28 Apr 1989 44 For assisting with the disarming of an armed man who had wounded and killed workers in an Australia Post building in Melbourne during the Queen Street massacre.
Gleeson , Terry Heydon Terry Heydon Gleeson 10 Sep 1976 1 For the attempted rescue of a man from a tunnel filled with fumes.[24] The first Star of Courage was awarded to Terry Heydon Gleeson in 1976. He attempted to rescue a badly burnt man who had been painting the interior of a tidal marker when an explosion occurred.[25]
Goold , Natalie Joy Natalie Joy Goold 17 Oct 2003 114 [3]
Gordon-Brown , Lee Nigel Lee Nigel Gordon-Brown 29 Aug 2005 122
Gordon-Green , Lee Nigel Lee Nigel Gordon-Green 8 Sep 2005 125
Graham , Craig Ian Craig Ian Graham 12 Oct 1994 81
Hancock , Mitchell John Mitchell John Hancock 7 May 1992 64 (Sep 92).[3]
Harland , Patrick Patrick Harland 11 Mar 1983 20 (Posthumous award) - Gazette S100 27/5/83. Mr Harland displayed conspicuous courage in giving chase to two armed and dangerous men and persisting in the pursuit of them notwithstanding the fact that he was continuously in great peril.
Harris , Wayne Andrew Wayne Andrew Harris 28 Apr 1989 45 Rescue from burning aeroplane
Hebden , Noel Albert Noel Albert Hebden 8 Mar 1999 100
Hebden , Noel Albert Noel Albert Hebden 1 Oct 1998 97 S78 1999
Hill , Vernon Gregory Vernon Gregory Hill 30 Oct 1996 88
Holden , Michael Lewis Michael Lewis Holden 26 Nov 1982 19 For rescuing passengers from a burning helicopter after a crash.
Hunter , Matthew Allan Matthew Allan Hunter 14 Apr 1993 72 For the rescue of a surfer after a shark attack at Duranbah Beach, New South Wales.
Hurley , Kevin Michael Kevin Michael Hurley 29 Mar 1993 71 For the rescue of the crew of the burning oil tanker Kikri in heavy seas off the reefs near Wedge Island off the Western Australian coast on 21 July 1991.[26]
Hyland , Stephen William Stephen William Hyland 2 Mar 2009 135 On the night of 7 March 2004, Mr Hyland assisted in the rescue of two women being attacked by a man at Birkdale, Queensland. On the night in question, Mr Hyland was standing on the front landing of his house when he heard frantic screams from across the road. He saw two women run to a next door neighbour’s house, thump desperately on the screen door and call out for the police to be called. Moments later the women were confronted by a young man. In a rage the man raised a sword and struck out at the women, severely injuring both of them. Mr Hyland raced to confront the attacker, picking up a second weapon dropped earlier by the offender. Mr Hyland repeatedly demanded the man back away, which resulted in the offender moving away a short distance from the victims. As he did so, Mr Hyland jumped in and stood between the offender and the women, mirroring the offender’s movements as he tried again to get at his victims. As the women attempted to escape, the offender pursued them, quickly followed by Mr Hyland who challenged the offender again. One of the women ran up behind Mr Hyland for protection and as he shielded her she desperately screamed for help. Mr Hyland resolutely maintained his position in the standoff, calling out to others in the street to contact the police. The sound of police in the distance spooked the offender and he quickly fled the scene. Mr Hyland checked the condition of the two victims, reassuring them until police and ambulance arrived at the scene. The offender was later apprehended by police. By his actions, Mr Hyland displayed conspicuous courage.[27]
James , Glenn Kenneth Glenn Kenneth James 30 Mar 1979 7 Through his initiative Mr James placed himself in great peril and by his conspicuous courage rescued three persons caught in a rip in heavy surf, which was sweeping them towards a rocky headland.
Janakievski , Ken Ken Janakievski 16 Aug 2010 139 On the night of 9 June 2006, Mr Janakievski attempted to detain an armed robber escaping from a holdup at a hotel at St Peters, New South Wales. Around midnight, four men armed with a shot gun and large knives entered a hotel at St Peters. They spread out in the public bar area, and began to menace patrons and staff. They screamed aggressively as they rounded up their victims, ordering them into an adjacent room and on to the floor. The duty hotel manager, Mr Janakievski, was attacked from behind and forced to open a safe, and then threatened by another offender armed with the shot gun as cash was also removed from one of the registers. The offenders continued to intimidate and yell obscenities at the patrons as they were ordered to hand over wallets and mobile phones. Mr Janakievski was made to move into the room with the victims where he was again threatened by the offender armed with the shot gun. The weapon was raised to shoulder level, and aimed at him at point blank range. Fearing for the safety of his customers, Mr Janakievski lunged at the offender and was able to wrestle the gun from him, prompting the robbers to flee from the hotel. Reacting instinctively, Mr Janakievski pursued them out into the street and tried to detain one of the offenders. As the robbers escaped by car, Mr Janakievski learnt that one of his customers had sustained a critical knife wound. Running to his aid, Mr Janakievski dropped to the ground and applied pressure to the man’s chest wound then commenced Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Sadly, the victim’s injury was fatal. By his actions, Mr Janakievski displayed conspicuous bravery.[3]
Jeppesen , Robert John Robert John Jeppesen 1 Nov 1990 52 For alerting residents of burning hotel at Longreach, Queensland.[26]
Jury , Stephen Stephen Jury 14 Oct 1983 21 For rescuing an unconscious man from the path of oncoming train at Boronia railway station, Victoria.
Karam , Alan Hafiz Alan Hafiz Karam 12 Sep 1980 12 Prevented payroll robbery at the Randwick Bus Depot, New South Wales
Kerr , William William Kerr 10 Sep 1976 2 Attempted to rescue man from carbon monoxide filled well
Kidd , Peter Grahame Peter Grahame Kidd 28 Apr 1989 46 Queensland Police Service operation to apprehend an armed offender
King , Duncan Gordon Duncan Gordon King 1 Oct 1998 98 New South Wales Police Service. S78 1999
Kirkham , Gregory Clifton Gregory Clifton Kirkham 9 Apr 1997 91 Gaz S179 1997
Kozakiewicz , Bernard Bernard Kozakiewicz 30 Oct 1991 61 Apprehended two armed offenders at Wyong, New South Wales[26]
Lanigan , John Joseph John Joseph Lanigan 30 Jan 1987 29 Tackled armed robber during hold-up
Lloyd , Daniel Francis Daniel Francis Lloyd 9 Aug 1985 25 On 28 July 1984 the yacht Larina was anchored off Beagle Reef 200 km north of Derby, Western Australia. A crew member went for a swim and was carried away by the current. Mr Lloyd and others threw her a ring with rope attached but she drifted further. Aware the waters were in...
Lowther , William Percival William Percival Lowther 5 Sep 1988 39 Rescued 3 men from treacherous seas at the Murray Mouth, South Australia
Lucas , Joanne Margaretha Joanne Margaretha Lucas 17 Aug 2009 137 On the morning of 10 May 2008, Mrs Lucas rescued a man who had been attacked by a shark at Middleton Beach, Albany, Western Australia.
Lumb , David Harry John David Harry John Lumb 30 Oct 1991 62 (May 1992).[26]
Mackelmann, Grahame DouglasGrahame Douglas Mackelmann 11 Apr 1980 10 Hijack incident on a Trans Australia Airlines (TAA) flight from Coolangatta, Queensland to Brisbane, Queensland on 8 June 1979
Mann , Peta-Lynn Peta-Lynn Mann 7 Aug 1981 16 31/08/1981. On 17 April 1981, Peta-Lynn Mann aged 12 saved Mr. H Graham from a crocodile attack. The crocodile seized Mr Graham by the arm Miss Mann pulled him free. The crocodile returned to the attack seized Mr Graham by the thigh & spun h
Mar , Alexander James Alexander James Mar 29 Apr 1998 96 S287 1998
Maros , Paul Eugene Paul Eugene Maros 1 Oct 1998 99 S78 1999
Marshall , Lillian Beryl Lillian Beryl Marshall 3 May 1990 50 19 September 1990
Masters , Ralph Dudley Ralph Dudley Masters 26 Oct 1989 47 Rescue from armed offenders robbing Commonwealth Bank
McLeod , Lorraine Kaye Lorraine Kaye McLeod 31 Jan 1986 27 Rescued man from burning helicopter, although herself injured
McNaughton , Craig Douglas Craig Douglas McNaughton 31 Jan 1986 28 Rescued man from burning vehicle after accident
McNiven , Rachelle Rachelle McNiven 27 Oct 1992 67 (Mar 93)
McPherson , Bruce Wallace Bruce Wallace McPherson 31 Aug 1979 8 Located and rescued sea captain from sunken trawler
McQueen , Allan Wayne Allan Wayne McQueen 26 Oct 1989 48 Pursuit of armed offender at Woolloomooloo
Meagher , Gregory Charles Gregory Charles Meagher 27 Oct 1992 68 For the rescue of the crew of the burning oil tanker Kikri in heavy seas off the reefs near Wedge Island off the Western Australian coast on 21 July 1991.[26]
Meredith , Robert Alan Robert Alan Meredith 17 Oct 2003 115 [3]
Miller , Robert George Robert George Miller 14 Feb 2000 104
Mueller , Christin Christin Mueller 3 May 1990 51 19 September 1990
Munro, Lauren JohnLauren John Munro 17 Oct 2003 116 [3][28]
Murphy , Dennis Patrick Dennis Patrick Murphy 27 Jul 1984 23 Killed by shark while attempting to lead it from 2 friends
Murphy , Sean Daniel Sean Daniel Murphy 1 Nov 1990 53 Gazette No. S 67 16 March 1991[3]
Neil , Darren Leigh Darren Leigh Neil 26 Oct 1993 78 Assisted police in disarming armed offender at Creswick, Victoria
Nelson , Robert Beresford Robert Beresford Nelson 12 Sep 1980 13 Prevented payroll robbery at Randwick Bus Depot, New South Wales
O'Brien , James Joseph James Joseph O'Brien 21 Aug 2000 106 Northern Territory Police Service
O'Leary , Sharon Elaine Sharon Elaine O'Leary 18 Apr 1991 57 Rescue from armed offender at Wynnum West, Queensland
O'Meley , Kerri-Anne Kerri-Anne O'Meley 17 Mar 2008 133 In the early hours of the morning of 17 June 2005, Miss O’Meley went to the aid of family members during a vicious attack in their home at Wallsend, New South Wales. Just after midnight, Miss O’Meley’s estranged husband illegally entered the family home of his former wife, her parents and her two teenage children. The man located Miss O’Meley asleep in the house, woke her and, in a frenzied attack, stabbed her repeatedly. Miss O’Meley’s mother and father were awoken by the noise and, caught between their daughter and the offender, they too were viciously stabbed. The man made his way to his daughter’s bedroom where the attacks continued. He repeatedly stabbed his daughter, injuring her legs and throat. She tried to fend him off and, as a result, was also cut across the hands. Despite significant stab wounds to her chest, and weakened by the considerable loss of blood, Miss O’Meley displayed extreme courage in frightening circumstances. Without regard for her own life she protected her daughter from further attack by grappling with her estranged husband, pushing him away. As a result, Miss O’Meley was stabbed again, several times, before the offender fled the scene. Sadly, Miss O’Meley and her father died as a result of their significant injuries sustained in the tragedy. By her actions, Miss O’Meley displayed conspicuous bravery, thereby losing her life.[29]
Parker , John Johnston Laird John Johnston Laird Parker 1 Nov 1990 54 Attempted to disarm offender at Camden, New South Wales
Parkinson , Jeffrey Jeffrey Parkinson 6 Feb 1981 15 Attempted to disarm assailant and protect female companion
Playford , Alan John Alan John Playford 15 Oct 1997 93 S45 1998
Pollard , Brett Brett Pollard 5 May 1978 4 Rescued friend from heavy surf - 1.5 hours effort
Priest , Russell Charles Russell Charles Priest 5 Apr 1995 84 Disarmed offender at Boronia, Victoria
Procter , Timothy Henry Timothy Henry Procter 1 Nov 1990 55 Attempted rescue of five fellow miners at Emu Mine, Agnew, Western Australia
Proctor , Gary John Gary John Proctor 9 Apr 1997 92 Mid-air collision between two Blackhawk Army helicopters at the High Range Training Area near Townsville, Queensland in the 1996 Blackhawk accident
Qazim , Esme Esme Qazim 11 Apr 1980 11 21 May 1980. Miss Qazim displayed conspicuous courage in attacking an armed and dangerous hijacker on a Trans Australia Airlines (TAA) flight from Coolangatta, Queensland to Brisbane, Queensland on 8 June 1979
Queripel , Phillip David Phillip David Queripel 14 Apr 1993 73 Rescued electrocuted fellow linesman at Bradfordville, Goulburn, New South Wales
Read , Gregory Christopher Gregory Christopher Read 27 Oct 1992 69 (March 1993)
Richards , Francis Clarence Francis Clarence Richards 12 Jun 1987 32 Rescued girl and handicapped boy from burning house
Robinson , Geoffrey Douglas Geoffrey Douglas Robinson 12 Aug 2004 118
Rodgers , Robert Jordan Robert Jordan Rodgers 18 Apr 1991 58 Rescue from armed offender at Wynnum West, Queensland
Rudder , Leah Helene Leah Helene Rudder 12 Mar 2007 130 In the early morning of 10 April 2003, New South Wales Police Force Senior Constable Rudder rescued an unconscious man from a burning house at Tarro, New South Wales
Runham , James Richard James Richard Runham 10 Apr 1996 86 Pursued armed robber at Ipswich, Queensland
Ryder , Joseph Robert Neil Joseph Robert Neil Ryder 15 Oct 1997 94 Rendered assistance to neighbours, assaulted by man, machete
Sams , Laurence Charles Laurence Charles Sams 6 Aug 2001 109
Savage , Dennis Allan Dennis Allan Savage 12 Aug 2004 119
Shirtliff , Stephen Robert Stephen Robert Shirtliff 12 Jun 1987 33 Rescued man from burning car after accident
Smith , Daryl John Daryl John Smith 12 Mar 2007 131
Sorohan , Alicia Violet Alicia Violet Sorohan 27 Feb 2006 128
Steadman , Katie Louise Katie Louise Steadman 12 Aug 2002 111
Strugnell , Leslie Peter Leslie Peter Strugnell 14 Apr 1993 74 Disarmed offender in the Kalgoorlie/Boulder City Council
Summers , Brian Colin John Brian Colin John Summers 6 Nov 1987 36 16 March 1988. By his actions Senior Constable Summers displayed conspicuous courage in most perilous circumstances. Western Australia Police Force
Sutton , Colin Jeremy Colin Jeremy Sutton 29 Aug 2005 123
Sycamnias , Paul John Paul John Sycamnias 14 Apr 1993 75 Disarmed an offender in St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Symes , Michael Francis Michael Francis Symes 7 May 1992 65 (September 1992). Queensland Police Service[26]
Taskun , Oguz Hakan Oguz Hakan Taskun 18 Sep 2006 129 [3]
Thomas , Stephen Richard Stephen Richard Thomas 12 Aug 2002 112 Saved friend from shark attack.[30]
Thornton , Garry Lawrence Garry Lawrence Thornton 10 Feb 1984 22 Rescued woman from cliff face
Thurgar , John Duncan John Duncan Thurgar 30 Nov 1979 9 Crossed minefield in the United Nations Buffer Zone in Cyprus to rescue a man.[3]
Timmins , Stephen Charles Stephen Charles Timmins 5 Sep 1988 40 Disarmed offender holding hostages
Tucker , Michael Anthony Michael Anthony Tucker 2 Mar 2009 136 In the early hours of 12 January 2008, Mr Tucker rescued two children from a burning house at Cranbourne, Victoria. Mr Tucker heard the sound of a nearby smoke alarm and on investigating saw a neighbouring house on fire. He ran to the building to see a mother and father screaming that two of their children were still inside. Mr Tucker raced into the house where sections of the roof had already collapsed and with dense choking smoke restricted his visibility, he was forced to retreat. Mr Tucker grabbed a torch and re-entered the house only to find the light was of no use in the thick blanket of smoke. Covering his face and mouth with a dressing gown, Mr Tucker entered the building for a third time. He struggled through the house but found that access to the children’s bedroom was blocked by huge flames. He then raced outside to the back of the building and climbed through a window. He was feeling overcome by the heat and his breathing was dangerously impaired by the black toxic smoke. As Mr Tucker felt his way around inside he stumbled over the two children huddled together under a doona. The smoke was so thick and disorienting that Mr Tucker could no longer see where he had entered the room. As the fire began to consume the house Mr Tucker persisted with his efforts and instinctively found his way back to the opening. One by one he passed the children to the arms of waiting neighbours. Exhausted and overcome by smoke, Mr Tucker fell through the window and slowly crawled away from the burning house. He was helped over a fence where ambulance administered first aid. By his actions, Mr Tucker displayed conspicuous courage.[31]
Turner , John Thomas John Thomas Turner 27 Oct 1992 70 New South Wales Police Service. (March 1993)
Viney , Trevor Allan Trevor Allan Viney 26 Oct 1989 49 Rescue from shark attack at Waitpinga, South Australia
Visser, William MariaWilliam Maria Visser 14 Feb 2000 105 [32]
Wall , Ronald James Ronald James Wall 29 Aug 2005 124
Warburton , Shane Robert Shane Robert Warburton 17 Mar 2008 134 In the late afternoon of 2 April 2005, Mr (then Leading Seaman) Warburton rescued a leading aircraftman from a Royal Australian Navy Sea King helicopter which crashed at Tuindrao, Nias Island, Indonesia. During its deployment to assist earthquake victims in Indonesia, a Royal Australian Navy Sea King helicopter crashed near the village of Tuindrao on Nias Island, Indonesia. Leading Seaman Warburton was aboard the helicopter and sustained severe injuries. He was trapped in the rear of the cabin which was on fire and quickly filling with thick black smoke. The cockpit had caved in and the two pilots were deceased. Leading Seaman Warburton tried to rouse other passengers, and found one other person alive. He inched his way through the debris and found a service colleague with horrible leg fractures and other injuries. Although almost overcome by exhaustion and restricted by choking black smoke, he summoned his strength and determination and dragged the victim as far as he could to a small opening in the tail of the helicopter, where he shouted for help. As Leading Seaman Warburton was pulled from the wreckage by local villagers he pleaded with them to rescue his mate from the aircraft. After the second rescue attempt succeeded, Leading Seaman Warburton attempted to return to the crash site to search for other victims but was restrained by the villagers when a series of explosions accelerated the fire. Sadly, the remaining personnel on the helicopter died in the crash. By his actions, Leading Seaman Warburton displayed conspicuous bravery.[33]
Williams , Mervyn Mervyn Williams 16 Sep 1977 3 Rescued man from surf
Wust , John Roy John Roy Wust 21 Feb 2005 121 On the afternoon of 3 August 2003, Mr Wust rescued a man and a woman from a burning vehicle after an accident on the Leichhardt Highway near Biloela, Queensland. Mr Wust was travelling south with his wife on the Leichhardt Highway towards Biloela when he saw a station wagon on its roof with large amounts of smoke coming from the engine. Mr Wust stopped his car and asked his wife to turn on the hazard warning lights and to ring 000 emergency. He then ran to the overturned vehicle and saw a man and woman trapped inside in their seats. Both were unconscious. The driver's door was jammed and the car had burst into flames. Mr Wust realised the man and woman would burn to death if he did not act quickly. After considerable effort, he forced open the back door on the driver's side, freed the female driver from her seat belt and dragged her out of the car. The flames were now spreading, with the engine compartment well alight. Mr Wust could feel the heat from the front of the car. Although someone yelled at him not to go back into the vehicle because it was about to explode, Mr Wust returned to help the trapped male passenger. He climbed over the heavy set man and managed to free his broken foot and drag him through the back door of the car. Other people helped Mr Wust to move the man and the woman away from the car before it exploded. By his actions, Mr Wust displayed conspicuous courage.[34]
Young , Craig Leslie Craig Leslie Young 12 Jun 1987 34 Rescued persons from burning building
Zerafa , Charles Charles Zerafa 22 Aug 2011 141 On the morning of 9 May 2006, Mr Zerafa assisted a wounded police officer and confronted an armed offender at Mangalore, Tasmania. Mr Zerafa was travelling along the Midland Highway at Mangalore, Tasmania, with a friend when he came upon a police vehicle and another vehicle stopped by the side of the road. Two other drivers had stopped by the vehicle and were attempting to assist a police officer, who had been shot and was lying on the ground. One of the men notified police on the police radio of the situation, and informed Mr Zerafa and his friend that a man was armed with a gun. As the two men moved away, Mr Zerafa approached the wounded officer and checked for a response. Despite the considerable risk to his own safety, he then yelled to the armed offender and tried to negotiate with him, but the man responded by pointing a gun directly at him. Mr Zerafa moved away as the offender knelt down beside the wounded police officer. The offender then went to back to his vehicle and appeared to be reloading his weapon, which allowed Mr Zerafa the opportunity to return to the police officer. While continually trying to negotiate with the gunman Mr Zerafa inched closer to him, however the offender responded by pointing the gun at him again. Mr Zerafa continued negotiating until the police arrived and arrested the man By his actions, Mr Zerafa displayed conspicuous courage.[3]
MacDonald , Andrew Andrew MacDonald 24 Mar 2014 145 On the morning of 5 August 2010, Mr Andrew MacDonald rescued a colleague from an armed offender at Bonnyrigg, New South Wales. Mr MacDonald was working as a department manager at a major retail store in Bonnyrigg when three men entered the store and requested to speak to the store loss prevention officer. As he was speaking with them the undercover loss prevention officer approached and identified himself. The men requested he go outside with them, before an argument ensued and they began to assault him. As the men wrestled, a handgun was produced and aimed at the victim’s stomach. Mr MacDonald called for help, as he pushed one of the offenders away and managed to keep the two other men on the ground which allowed the victim to runaway and hide elsewhere inside the store. After the offenders got up, Mr MacDonald warned other staff and customers to stay back as he followed the men and ordered them outside despite them threatening to shoot him. When the offenders departed through the back exit and headed to their trucks Mr MacDonald prevented staff and customers from leaving the store for their own safety before one of the men fired two shots towards where he and others were standing. By his actions, Mr MacDonald displayed conspicuous courage.[35]

References

  1. ↑ ALLEN, Elizabeth Florence, 30 March 1979, itsanhonour.gov.au
  2. ↑ ANDERSON, Frank, itsanhonour.gov.au
  3. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Star of Courage citations, Australian Bravery Association
  4. ↑ Anderton, Luke Alan, itsanhonour.gov.au
  5. ↑ , www.gg.gov.au
  6. ↑ BADGER, Stephen William, itsanhonour.gov.au
  7. ↑ BAILEY, Scott Daniel, itsanhonour.gov.au
  8. ↑ Bennett, Kevin Allan, itsanhonour.gov.au
  9. ↑ Bichler, Garry Michael, itsanhonour.gov.au
  10. ↑ Boughton, Ian Maurice, itsanhonour.gov.au
  11. ↑ Graeme, Samuels (22 February 2009). "Star of Courage - Citations". Australian Bravery Decorations. Graeme Samuels. Retrieved 29 March 2015.
  12. ↑ Boukouvalas, Constantinos , itsanhonour.gov.au
  13. ↑ BOWEN, Wayne Thomas, 26 November 1982, itsanhonour.gov.au
  14. ↑ BOWMAN, Robert James, 30 March 1979, itsanhonour.gov.au
  15. ↑ BOYLE, Dominic, 9 April 1997, itsanhonour.gov.au
  16. ↑ BRACKENRIG, Jeffery David, 12 October 1994, itsanhonour.gov.au
  17. ↑ BRADSHAW, Paul, 31 January 1986, itsanhonour.gov.au
  18. ↑ BRASSEY, Spencer John, 5 April 1995, itsanhonour.gov.au
  19. ↑ BREEN, David Ashley, 21 February 2005, itsanhonour.gov.au
  20. ↑ BROWN, Michael Thomas, 27 February 2006, itsanhonour.gov.au
  21. ↑ BURNS, Trevor Ronald, 25 March 2013, itsanhonour.gov.au
  22. ↑ Robert Cook, Bravery Council Honours List, 17 March 2008, www.gg.gov.au
  23. ↑ "50 Years of Service - 1988" (pdf). Army News (1224). Department of Defence. 29 October 2009. p. 4 (liftout). Retrieved 29 March 2015.
  24. ↑ GLEESON, Terry Heydon, itsanhonour.gov.au
  25. ↑ Star of Courage Fact Sheet, itsanhonour.gov.au
  26. 1 2 3 4 5 6 The citations for Hurley, Jeppesen, Kozakiewicz, Lumb, Meagher, no longer appears on the ABA page.
  27. ↑ Stephen William HYLAND, Australian Bravery Decorations Honours List, 2 March 2009, www.gg.gov.au
  28. ↑ MUNRO, Lauren John, 17 October 2003, It's an Honour
  29. ↑ Kerri-Anne O’Meley, Bravery Council Honours List, 17 March 2008, www.gg.gov.au
  30. ↑ Courage in great peril - Stephen Thomas, itsanhonour.gov.au
  31. ↑ Michael Anthony TUCKER, Australian Bravery Decorations Honours List, 2 March 2009, www.gg.gov.au
  32. ↑ VISSER, William Maria, 14 February 2000, It's an Honour
  33. ↑ Shane Robert Warburton, Bravery Council Honours List, 17 March 2008, www.gg.gov.au
  34. ↑ "Star of Courage". The Gallantry Medallists' League website. The Gallantry Medallists' League. 2009. Retrieved 29 March 2015.
  35. ↑ http://www.gg.gov.au/sites/default/files/files/honours/bd/bd80/Media%20Notes%20-%20Star%20of%20Courage.pdf

Further reading

Australian Bravery Association

The Star of Courage citations describe the deeds of:

  • Scott Bailey
  • Michael Brown
  • Lorraine Casey
  • Corporal Shaun Clements
  • Alan Dwyer
  • Rodney Fiechtner
  • Kevin Fletcher
  • Ronald Gianoncelli
  • Natalie Goold
  • Mitchell Hancock
  • Ken Janakievski
  • Robert Meredith
  • Sean Murphy
  • Lauren Munro
  • Oguz Taskun
  • John Thurgar
  • Charles Zerafa
Bravery Council Honours Lists

Hosted by the Governor General's website

Meeting 68: 17 March 2008 Robert Cook, Kerri-Anne O’Meley, Shane Warburton
Meeting 70: 2 March 2009 Stephen Hyland, Michael Tucker
Meeting 71: 17 August 2009 Joanne Lucas
Meeting 72: 15 March 2010 Ronald Gianoncelli
Meeting 73: 16 August 2010 Ken Janakievski
Meeting 75: 22 August 2011 Lorraine Casey, Charles Zerafa
Meeting 76: 10 March 2012 Robert Fenwick
Meeting 77: 27 August 2012 Luke Anderton, Clayton Giddings
Meeting 78: 25 March 2013 Trevor Burns
Meeting 80: 24 March 2014 Andrew MacDonald
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