EDITORIAL: Admiring bravery in the face of danger

A BENDIGO man has been recognised for outstanding bravery after he placed the lives of others ahead of his own during the Black Saturday bush fires.

Michael Ryan is one of 22 recipients of a Bravery Medal at this year's Australian Bravery Awards.

The awards, established in 1975, represent the highest-level of recognition that can be accorded for outstanding achievement and service in national life. 

Mr Ryan recieved the honour after he tried to save the lives of his now wife's brother and sister-in-law, Carol and Mick Kane, from a fire at their Long Gully home on February 7, 2009.

Sadly, the fire claimed the life of Mr Kane.

Echuca resident Christopher Fowler was also recognised with an award for Brave Conduct.

The former police officer put his life in danger to disarm a woman who was attacking an elderly man with a knife in New South Wales in 2007.

Australia's Governor-General Peter Cosgrove said the recipients would join the company of others whose actions have enriched communities.