Six recognised for bravery after dinghy tragedy

Rescuer Allan Godfrey meets a member of the the Paasi family during a memorial service. Photo / Michael Craig

Six people involved in the rescue of children from a capsized dinghy that claimed the lives of two people have been recognised for their bravery.

Four civilians and a paramedic and firefighter working with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter team were today commended by the Counties Manukau District Commander for their bravery by rescuing children from the water at Mangere Bridge when a dinghy capsized in May 2012.

A father and son drowned in the dinghy tragedy, but the actions of the group of people saved the lives of three children.

Allan Godfrey and Dennis Middleton were recognised for entering the water and rescuing the youngest of the children thrown into the water in the capsize.

Mr Godfrey and Mr Middleton swam in the dangerous sea to reach the 1-year-old child, took him to a nearby pylon and performed CPR on him.

"Your outstanding bravery and determination undoubtedly saved the child's life and you are to be commended," the citation for the awards for the men read.

Mr Godfrey said being recognised three years after the event had brought a lot of emotion back to the surface for him.

"We saved someone's life... That family was really impacted that day," he said.

"There's a bit of anxiety, I've put it away for three years."

The health insurance worker was choked up talking about the moment he saw the dinghy crash and the children drowning.

"I was there with my son fishing on the bridge and I saw it all happen."

Utu Togafau entered the water to help rescue the children, but realised the conditions were too treacherous. She remained on shore to help the rescuers in their efforts and was recognised for her "outstanding bravery and compassion".

Paramedic Carl Taylor and firefighter John Beswick were recognised for the professionalism and commitment to serve on that day.

Civilian Dick Kereama was also recognised for his bravery and role in the rescue but wasn't present at the ceremony.