A Shepparton police officer has received a bravery commendation for rescuing a man who was on fire.
Sergeant Mark Eade was the recipient of one of 39 bravery decorations announced by Australia’s Governor-General to recognise the courageous acts of 66 people.
Sgt Eade received his bravery commendation for putting out the flames on a man who was on fire in Shepparton on February 28, 2021.
At 10.10pm that day, Sgt Eade responded to reports of a man lying in the middle of the road.
He arrived and saw the man lying next to a bicycle and three onlookers.
Sgt Eade approached and tried to speak with the man; however, he did not respond.
Suddenly the man's entire upper body was on fire and he screamed and tried to get up.
Sgt Eade yelled at the man to drop and roll; however, he did not do so.
The police officer pushed the man to the ground in an attempt to roll him and pat out the flames, but they would not extinguish.
Sgt Eade grabbed the man’s burning jumper, removed it from his body and threw it to the side.
A police van arrived and Sgt Eade asked them to extinguish the fire.
Ambulance crews arrived and treated the man for serious burns to his upper body.
Sgt Eade was treated for minor burns.
This week, Governor-General David Hurley awarded 11 people a bravery medal and a further 22 received a commendation for brave conduct as part of the annual Australian Bravery Decorations.
A further six groups — which included 34 people — received a group bravery citation.
“We recognise and celebrate the bravery of 66 people who put themselves in danger to help others,” Mr Hurley said.
“The courage they showed is matched by their selflessness and they deserve our respect, gratitude and recognition.
“Each of the stories is striking and inspiring. In perilous situations the people we are celebrating chose to try and save others — often at great risk or cost to themselves.
“On behalf of all Australians, I congratulate recipients and offer our thanks for their brave action.
“I encourage recipients to wear their Australian Bravery Decoration with pride.”