MARC lifeguards Phillip David, Debbie Gillard, Kate Chaisty and Ryan Felton with Heinz Englmayr and wife Hedi.
Four City of Mandurah lifeguards from the Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre (MARC) have been honoured at the 2024 Royal Life Saving Bravery Awards for saving a man’s life while on duty back in May.
Lifeguards Debbie Gillard, Kate Chaisty, Ryan Felton and Phillip David were among the first to respond when local man Heinz Englmayr fell unconscious while swimming in the MARC’s indoor pool after suffering a severe heart attack.
The quartet, along with support from other centre staff, sprang into action to rescue Mr Englmayr from the water before performing CPR and administering a defibrillator. The swift actions of the lifeguards ensured Mr Englmayr survived until St. John WA paramedics arrived on the scene, after which he was rushed to hospital and went on to make a full recovery.
The team’s life-saving response was highlighted at the Bravery Awards event at the State Reception Centre in Kings Park on Friday, October 4. Ms Chaisty was presented a Gold Medallion while Ms Gillard, Mr Felton and Mr David were awarded Gold Stars for their professionalism and care. MARC staff Robyn Chaisty, Ryan Pennacchio, Amy Giltrow, Aiden Haines, Nathan Brierley and Alannah Cameron received Bravery Commendations for their efforts in the rescue.
Mr Englmayr returned to the MARC following his recovery to meet the team that helped save his life. “From the bottom of my heart, I just want to say thank you,” Mr Englmayr told the crew. “You all did your best and I’m still here because of it.”
City of Mandurah Mayor Rhys Williams praised the MARC lifeguards for their prompt response during the crisis and congratulated them on their bravery awards.
“It is wonderful to see that the quick thinking and actions of our lifeguards have been recognised at the Bravery Awards,” Mayor Williams said. “We have a remarkable team of highly trained, professional staff at the MARC, and their response in helping to save Mr Englmayr’s life is truly remarkable. We are so happy to hear that Mr Englmayr has made a full recovery.”
Mayor Williams also recognised members of Marine Rescue Mandurah who were awarded for their assistance in a diving tragedy in Dawesville in March. “Your community is proud of you all,” Mayor Williams said.
The 2024 Royal Life Saving Bravery Awards acknowledged a range of lifesaving efforts and extraordinary bravery among Western Australians who embody the values of courage, compassion and community responsibility. For more information on the 2024 Bravery Awards, visit: https://royallifesavingwa.com.au/
