Former Gresford resident Nathan Wall received his brave conduct award from the Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove AK in Canberra last month.
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In 2008 the then 22-year-old saw a drunken man plunge into the rapidly rising waters of Lady’s Well in the early hours of January 5.
After witnessing the man being washed over a waterfall and hitting his head on rocks, Mr Wall dived into the water at the bottom of the falls.
Given the speed of the river, Nathan had to dive under the waterfall, grab the victim and then come up between the falls and the rock face to prevent him and the young man being swept downriver.
“I managed to swim the victim to safety on the other side of the river from where he entered the water,” Wall said.
“I gave him first aid as he had cuts to his forehead.
“The young man was very agitated and still drunk and I had to physically stop him from diving into the water again and trying to swim back across the river to the camping area.
“We stayed on the other side of the river for over two hours until help arrived.”
Dungog resident Brian Harland, who is the national secretary of the Australian Bravery Association, was at Government House when Mr Wall received his award.
The association was created to support people who have been recognised for acts of bravery.
“Recipients have selflessly placed themselves in jeopardy to protect life, property or the environment,” Mr Harland said.
“The association’s vision is to support bravery recipients and their families, particularly children of posthumous and permanently disabled recipients of bravery awards.
“People are more than welcome to join our association.
“In its ranks you will meet some extraordinary Australians, hear some great yarns, share some amazing experiences and meet some unforgettable Aussies.”
Following last month’s horrific storm where many people were rescued, it is now an ideal time to nominate people for a bravery award.
Forms can be picked up from the Dungog Chronicle office at 114 Dowling Street, Dungog, or downloaded from the internet at www.itsanhonour.gov.au and go to download forms or contact Brian Harland on 0417 280 965.