Dalby man Dylan Taylor recognised with Australian Bravery Decoration for rescuing woman from Myall Creek after crash

Driving home from work in April 2022, the last thing a Dalby man expected to see was a car crash into Myall Creek at high speed, but what he did next saved a woman’s life.

Driving home from work in April 2022, the last thing that Dalby man Dylan Taylor expected to see was a car cross onto the wrong side of the road and crash into Myall Creek.

With no one else around to assist, Mr Taylor didn’t think twice, launching into action and diving into the water to rescue the unconscious woman.

“I was just doing what I thought was right. I was first on scene so I thought someone had to do something so I stood up and jumped in,” he said.

For his selfless bravery Mr Taylor was awarded one of 50 Australian Bravery Decorations for his courageous act and was one of just 38 Australians to receive a Commendation for Brave Conduct award.

The awards recognise acts of bravery where people selflessly put themselves in jeopardy to protect the lives or property of others.

On the afternoon of April 4, 2022 Mr Taylor was driving home from work when he witnessed a car cross to the incorrect side of the road at high speed, hit a grass bank and launch into Myall Creek.

Courageous act: Dalby’s Dylan Taylor recognised after saving driver from flooded car.

Mr Taylor acted quickly, jumping into the water and dragging the unconscious driver to safety.

“I was heading back from a job site and I was a couple of cars behind when I saw the car veer off and enter the creek. I saw it floating there and I jumped in to see if I could get her out,” Mr Taylor said.

“I wasn’t thinking a great deal at the time but as soon as I got to the car and the water rushed in, it started to kick in, it felt like a surreal moment, I was freaking out a bit but I managed to keep my composure and get her out.

“She came around a while ago and thanked me, she was very appreciative and gave me a hug, it felt good to know I had saved her life.”

Mr Taylor said it was a “surprise” to receive the award.

“It’s a big honour, I wasn’t expecting it at all and when I got the email I just said ‘wow’,” he said.

“I was over in America when I received it and I thought it might’ve been fake at first.”

Governor-General David Hurley congratulated the recipients for their acts of service.

“On behalf of all Australians I congratulate the recipients of Australian Bravery Decorations. Confronted with danger, each chose to help someone. Their bravery is commendable and their selflessness is inspirational,” he said.

“In a moment of peril, each of the people we are recognising today decided to come to the aid of someone else – some, someone they knew, others a total stranger. Often their actions were at a cost to themselves. Tragically, two recipients lost their own lives.

“On behalf of all Australians, I congratulate recipients and offer our thanks for their brave action. I encourage recipients to wear their Australian Bravery Decoration with pride.

“For the loved ones of those no longer with us – it is my hope that the posthumous acknowledgment of their bravery brings some comfort. Their stories will not be forgotten.”

Originally published as Dalby man Dylan Taylor recognised with Australian Bravery Decoration for rescuing woman from Myall Creek after crash