In January 2024, a quiet night in Roleystone turned to tragedy when a residential home caught fire just after midnight. Inside were a mother and her two young sons.

Nearby resident Dirk Matthiesen was alerted to the blaze and, realising the urgency, acted without hesitation.

“Upon discovering that the house was on fire I rescued two young boys who were trapped inside the house behind a locked door,” recalls Dirk. “I smashed a window and was able to get the two boys out of the burning house and to safety.”

As the boys reached safety they cried out that their mother was still inside. Dirk made the courageous decision to re-enter the home and climb back through the shattered window to search the burning home.

The smoke and flames inside ultimately forced him back and he was unable to find her.

The fire brigade arrived quickly to extinguish the blaze and ambulance crews treated the boys for minor burns and cuts from the glass. Sadly, their mother did not survive.

In October last year, Dirk was presented with Royal Life Saving WA’s highest honour, the Gold Cross Bravery Award, at the WA Bravery Awards to recognise his actions.

Dirk's heroic act saved the lives of the two young boys. His bravery and selflessness in the face of such danger are truly commendable.

Despite remaining modest about the recognition, Dirk reflected on the extraordinary impact of acting quickly in saving the boys lives.

If you are interested in learning lifesaving skills, explore our range of first aid courses today.