Heroes get second chance to shine at Pride of Australia Awards

WHEN push came to shove, little Calyn Hoad stepped up to save his brother’s life and was honoured for his bravery. Now it’s the turn of other unsung heroes.

WHEN push came to shove, little Calyn Hoad stepped up to become a hero.

For his extraordinary act of brotherly love and bravery, the Beenleigh boy was honoured with the Child of Courage medal at News Corp’s Pride of Australia awards last year.

Now Pride of Australia returns for its 11th year to honour the nation’s humblest heroes, hardest-working volunteers, and our most inspirational people.

BROTHERLY HUGS: Pride of Australia medal for heroic Calyn

News Corp chief executive Julian Clarke today launches the program that recognises the achievements of everyday Australians whose extraordinary deeds and dedication set them apart.

“Since launching in 2004, our Pride of Australia Awards have honoured hundreds of Australians, highlighting the remarkable contributions they make in their local communities,” Mr Clarke said.

“More often than not, they receive little recognition and no reward for their selfless efforts, so this program aims to celebrate and thank these true Aussie heroes.”

Last year’s National Child of Courage winner Calyn Hoad, 9, with brother Kya, 6. Picture: Jamie Hanson

Little Calyn is one such hero.

In August, 2013, when he was just seven, Calyn ran onto the road and pushed his younger brother, Kya, from the path of a four-wheel-drive, only to be hit himself.

His instinctive actions saved his four-year-old sibling but Calyn suffered a fractured skull resulting in brain damage.

Almost two years after the accident, Calyn is proving he is not just a brave big brother, but also a courageous fighter. He has responded well to ongoing rehabilitation to re-teach him to walk and eat.

Calyn Hoad with sister Ashanti, 7, brother Kya, mum Shanalee and dad Benjamin. Picture: Jamie Hanson

He goes to school three days a week and, much to the delight of his mum, Shanalee, is sounding words again.

“He’s able to say ‘mum’, which is huge for him, and he also says ‘me’ and ‘mate’,” Mrs Hoad said.

Calyn’s motor skills have improved dramatically and when he celebrated his superhero-themed ninth birthday in March, he was able to walk into an event crowded with admirers.

“He’s walking around a lot more — he’s almost running,” Mrs Hoad said. “He’s been a lot more playful. And he’s eating a lot more.”

Kya remains a doting little brother who refers to Calyn as his hero.

Kya Hoad and his hero brother Calyn. Pic Jamie Hanson

Since its inception, the Pride of Australia campaign has awarded more than 550 medals and shared more than 19,000 stories of hope, inspiration, courage and triumph over adversity, from the big-city sprawl to the most isolated rural community.

Nominations open today and close on July 19. Finalists for each category will be announced on August 30 . To nominate see our nomination form here.