Young lives saved by brave trio

It’s been 10 years, but Longford men Steve De Bruyn, his father Pieter De Bruyn and nephew Jak Oxford have been recognised for the bravery they demonstrated during a tragedy that unfolded in the waters of St Helens on December 29, 2014.

The trio have been awarded a Group Bravery Citation by the Governor General David Hurley for rescuing three children from rough seas

Jak was only 11 years of age when he went out with his uncle and grandfather checking cray pots, then they heard a radio distress call that a boat had capsized in rough waters on the St Helen's barway and an older man and three boys were in the water. 

Steven drove the boat through dangerous waves, chose a moment to enter the barway, and recovered the boys from the water. The boys told him that their father was in the water, so he drove the boat further into the bay to continue searching. 

Shortly after, a large wave hit the boat and washed two of the recovered boys back into the water and they had to be rescued a second time.

Making the decision to return to shore due to the treacherous conditions, they sadly later learned that the older man's body was recovered from the water. 

Steven, who has long worked at the Rocherlea Print Centre that until its recent closure printed the Courier, is well trained to run towards, not away, from danger, having just last week received his 15-year service medal with Carrick Volunteer Fire Brigade.

“We just went to catch crays, but we were never going to ignore a cry for help,” Steven said.

“It’s certainly made me change my fishing days to only the very best weather days.”

 Premier Jeremy Rockliff has congratulated and thanked Pieter, Steven and Jak for their display of extraordinary selflessness and courage. 

“These three brave men went into dangerous conditions to save lives. 

“On behalf of all Tasmanians, we are so proud to have people like you in our great state.”

All up six Bravery Medals, 33 commendations for Brave Conduct and two Group Bravery Citations were announced on Tuesday.

A formal presentation of bravery pins will be made to all involved next year.