Star of Courage

• Awarded on: May 12, 1980
• Invested on: September 26, 1980

Michael Charles Fikis, S.C. (Posthumous)
Star of Courage
Ronald Edward Charles Gorrie, M.B.
William John Meakin, M.B.
Medal of Bravery

Michael Fikis, a fireman, was asphyxiated while trying to revive a man during a fire in a dry-kiln on 5 March 1979. The man had climbed down into the kiln and was overcome by fumes. Mr. Fikis put on a breathing apparatus and went to his aid. Removing his mask and applying it to the victim, he tried hard to bring him to safety. In difficulties, he called out to his mates, Ronald Gorrie and William Meakin. They entered the kiln with rope and oxygen, but as they prepared to secure the line round the victim, Mr. Fikis was overcome. Mr. Gorrie applied oxygen but soon found himself affected and climbed back. Barely through the exit, he collapsed and had to be revived. Mr. Meakin then took over and managed to fasten the rope around Mr. Fikis. The latter was removed but all efforts to revive him and the first victim were in vain.