The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) is extremely proud of paramedic Michael Formica and 10 other Queenslanders who have been recognised in the latest Australian Bravery Decorations.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the 11 Queenslanders recognised in the second round of Australian Bravery Decorations for 2021 had courageously put the lives of others before their own, while overcoming great obstacles and hazardous conditions.
“Twice a year, the Australian Bravery Decorations celebrate the incredible bravery and selflessness of individuals, groups, and perhaps most frequently, those who serve on the frontline to protect and support our community,” the Premier said.
QAS paramedic Michael Formica was honoured with a Bravery Medal for his rescue of a mother, daughter and two animals from a house fire in Harristown in September 2019. Michael was off-duty when he was in the area visiting family and he noticed the house fire, and crawled through thick, black smoke several times to retrieve the distressed residents of the home.
QAS Acting Commissioner Craig Emery said the efforts of Officer Formica were entirely worthy of the highly esteemed national decoration.
“Emergency Service personnel are often faced with elements of risk in their day-to-day roles,” Acting Commissioner Emery said.
“For Michael to enter a fully engulfed home to save the life of those inside is bravery like no other, and we’re extremely proud of what he achieved that day.”
Queensland recipients of Australian Bravery Decorations will receive their awards at a formal ceremony at Government House in Brisbane.
