A Torquay man has been honoured in the 2024 Australian Bravery Decorations, for trying to help those during Melbourne’s Bourke Street terror attack.
Rod Patterson was stabbed in the head after noticing a ute on fire in November 2018, and went to help worried the driver may have still been inside the vehicle.
However he noticed no-one was in the ute before he was attacked by the assailant.
He was helped by others.
The offender fatally stabbed popular cafe owner Sisto Malaspina, and also injured a security guard.
The extremist was shot by police and died in hospital.
Mr has been honoured with a Bravery Medal for his actions, one of six Australians to receive the medal.
Forty others were also recognised in the awards this year.
Governor-General Sam Mostyn said every recipient was inspiring.
“I am delighted that these exceptional people will forever know that they have the gratitude of every Australian,” she said.
“On behalf of all Australians, congratulations to you all and thank you for your bravery.”
