Cody Harris’s cool head during trial of courage inspires others

TOWNSILLE youngster Cody Harris averted a tragedy when he awoke to find his house engulfed in flames.

TOWNSILLE youngster Cody Harris averted a tragedy when he awoke to find his house engulfed in flames.

In May 2012 the legally-blind youngster pulled his little brother from his burning bedroom then ran to wake his sisters and mother, who were still asleep in their beds.

That year, Cody – then 11 – was awarded the Child of Courage medal at the national Pride of Australia awards.

“None of us expected it because there were just so many deserving people,” his mum Michelle Hill said.

“His twin sister ended up in tears, she was so happy.”

Nominations opened yesterday for this year’s awards.

BRIGHT SPARK: Despite his blindness, courageous Cody Harris saved his sisters from burning home

HUMBLE: Cody Harris keeps his Pride of Australia medal close

Now a Year 8 student, Cody doesn’t often dwell on the night of the fire when his family escaped with their lives but lost all their possessions.

But Ms Hill said his Pride of Australia medal had stayed as a permanent reminder of his act of bravery.

“It gave him a bit more of a confidence boost when he realised he can do things,” she said. “He’s come along in leaps and bounds with his learning. He knows if he tries hard he’ll work it all out.”

Cody has now settled well into his first year of high school.

“He graduated Year 7 and went off to high school, he’s already had a girlfriend,” she said.

“We’ve had our ups and downs.

“We were glad when we finally moved into our new place and to have companies … helping us on out feet.”

Nominations are now open for the 10th annual Pride of Australia awards to recognise the residents who do extraordinary things throughout our community.

People can nominate worthy recipients across 10 categories, which are: Outstanding Bravery, Courage, Heroism, Community Spirit, Child of Courage, Young Leader, Care and Compassion, Inspiration, Environment and Fair Go.

Visit prideofaustralia.com.au