Michael Victor Jerram was fishing with his friend Philip Leslie Abram in a tinnie on the afternoon of October 3 2013. 

A fun weekend away with friends quickly turned menacing when their two hired houseboats nearby was struck by a freak thunderstorm.

Within seconds one of the houseboats completely capsized, throwing people into the water.

Mr Abram and Mr Jerram quickly made their way back to the houseboats through strong wind and blinding rain – multiple people were struggling in the rough water. 

Without hesitation, Mr Jerram jumped into the dangerous, crocodile infested water to assist.

Realising one female had drifted away from the houseboats, he climbed back into the small fishing boat and raced over to her.

She was on top of the water and lying face down.

He positioned the boat alongside the woman, reached over the side and turned her over.

Holding her against the boat he began resuscitation procedures.

Mr Abram, who had also been searching for others in the water, swam over to assist.

At this time another person from one of the houseboats also entered the water and swam over to help.

Together, the three men lifted the woman into the boat and Mr Jerram continued to try and resuscitate her. 

After a quick discussion, the men decided to make the 40 minute trip to the boat ramp, in an attempt to call for more help.

Mr Abram and Mr Jerram returned the third man to the houseboat, obtained extra fuel and set off.

On several occasions during the journey the woman’s condition deteriorated. 

Mr Jerram continued with CPR until they reached the boat ramp and as soon as they arrived Mr Abram quickly alerted emergency services, before returning to help Mr Jerram. 

Police officers arrived and provided assistance to the two men until paramedics got to the scene and took over resuscitation procedures.  

Despite the efforts made, unfortunately the woman did not survive the incident.

Today, the Governor-General, Sir Peter Cosgrove approved 18 Bravery Awards to Australian Heroes. 

“To the Australians being honoured today, I offer my warmest congratulations and express my sincere gratitude for your contribution to our nation,” the Governor-General said.

“We are fortunate as a community to have so many outstanding people willing to put themselves in harm’s way to assist others in need, and it is only fitting that they have today been recognised through the Australian Honours system.

“These awards have drawn national attention to the personal efforts of individuals, made willingly, without thought of personal risk.

“Today’s recipients now join the company of more than 50,000 recipients of Australian honours whose actions have enriched our community and whose values we hold dear – professionalism, compassion, dedication, generosity, tolerance, and energetic ambition.”