Vasta Praises the Brave Conduct of the Brisbane Coast Guard Volunteers

In Federal Parliament today, Ross Vasta, Federal Member for Bonner praised the actions of Craig Bowen and Steve Creevey who have both been awarded a commendation from the Federal Government’s Bravery Awards Department.

In the announcement gazetted officially today, the two men from the Manly chapter of the Brisbane Coast Guard will receive a Commendation for Brave Conduct for their part in the rescue of 18 passengers off the stricken dive boat Nautilus, which was wrecked at night in rough seas on Flinders Reef in Moreton Bay in December 2008.

“These men disregarded very real danger to their own lives to save the lives of 18 people,” said Mr Vasta.

“If it was not for their incredibly brave and selfless actions those 18 people might very well have lost their lives. Craig and Steve are true blue Aussie heroes in the community’s eyes,” said Mr Vasta.

“It is very prestigious to receive a Commendation for Brave Conduct and in this case the recognition could not have gone to more deserving recipients than Craig and Steve,” said Mr Vasta.

“The people of Brisbane owe a debt of gratitude not only to Craig and Steve but to all the volunteers that form the Coast Guard Brisbane and whose presence allows the community to enjoy the water off our coasts, safe in the knowledge that we have such talented and selfless people prepared to assist if we need it.” said Mr Vasta

The official presentation of the awards is scheduled for later this year.