25 March 2011

The bravery of three men, who saved two men from drowning in perilous conditions, is to be recognised by Governor-General, Rt Hon Sir Anand Satyanand, at a ceremony in Christchurch on Sunday.

On Sunday 27 March, the Governor-General will attend an award ceremony for the Royal Humane Society of New Zealand at the Burnside Bowling Club in Christchurch.

As Patron of the Society, the Governor-General will present a Silver Medal to Ike Hanson, and a Certificate of Merit to both Toby Walker and Kyle Williams.

On 5 February 2010, Ike Hanson, Toby Walker and Kyle Williams were surfing south of the mouth of the Rakaia River when fishermen caught Mr Hanson’s attention to alert him to two men whose boat had upturned and were being swept out to sea.

Ike Hanson took his surfboard and sprinted along the shingle beach barefoot, crossing the south stream with a horrendous break on the bar on his board, and the main river in the same manner. Mr Hanson then launched himself into the very rough surf and paddled out to the two men, with Toby Walker and Kyle Williams following close behind.

Mr Hanson managed to put both of the stricken men on his surfboard and battle against a strong rip, towing the two men into shore, with Mr Walker and Mr Williams’ assistance.

Ike Hanson put himself at extreme risk and, together with Toby Walker and Kyle Williams who were also at risk in dangerous conditions, assisted in saving the lives of the two men.

Since its inception in 1898, the Society has bestowed 2057 awards for acts of bravery where the rescuers have put their own lives at risk to assist others whose lives were in peril. Some 20 gold medals, 217 silver medals and 696 bronze medals have been issued to date.

The ceremony will begin at 10am on Sunday 27 March 2011 at the Burnside Bowling Club in Christchurch. Media wanting to attend this ceremony must contact Norman West on 021 259 1859, by 9am 27 March, to register their attendance. Media are reminded that a reasonable standard of dress is expected.

ENDS

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