News
8 February, 2025
Jack’s rescue heroics
A teenager who helped rescue a man from a burning car seconds before it exploded in flames has received the inaugural Mark Ryan Youth Leadership Award (MRYLA).
Police Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC) Queensland awarded PCYC Emergency Services Cadet Jack Daw at a ceremony on January 19.
The award, named after state Member for Morayfield Mark Ryan, celebrates and encourages young leaders who are making significant contributions to their communities.
It also aims to “motivate other young individuals to take initiative, foster positive change, and develop their leadership potential,” PCYC Emergency Services Cadets Manager Sue Bernard said.
Jack, 16, was recognised for his incredible efforts in Gin Gin last year, when he and his father came across a man trapped inside his burning car.
“We could see the man’s arm sticking out of the windshield, so while I was putting on my firefighting gear, my father checked on him,” Mr Daw said.
“We managed to pull him partway out, but his legs were stuck. After some effort, we freed him and moved him to the back of our car where I started checking over his injuries until QAS arrived.
“About 90 seconds after we got him out, the cabin was fully engulfed by fire.”
Mr Daw said it was an “honour” to receive the award and recognition, which was his first award through the program.
His message to other cadets is to “keep showing up, keep learning, and take every opportunity to build your skills.”
“You never know when they’ll be needed.”
Mr Ryan called Mr Daw “an impressive young person,” and said he is pleased PCYC is recognising leadership in local communities.
“He’s everything that we wish for the future – courageous, selfless, and dedicated to community service,” he said.
“Jack is a worthy recipient of the inaugural award and I wish him all the very best for his future.”
The winner of the award will see professional benefits, such as having access to a network of leaders and mentors, opportunities for guidance, and invitations to speak at events and forums, allowing them to expand their resumes.
