Young hero awarded for bravery in 2011 floods

HIS last moments were spent saving his brother’s life and now Jordan Rice is being remembered for his bravery.

COURAGE: Jordan Rice and his mum Donna Rice died in the 2011 floods.

HIS last moments were spent saving his brother's life and now Jordan Rice is being remembered for his bravery.

In January 2011, raging flood waters surrounded Jordan, his mum Donna and younger brother Blake as they sat trapped in their car on the corner of James and Kitchener Sts.

When a rescuer approached the car, the 13-year-old showed great selflessness and said "take my brother first."

It was an act that cost him his life.

His mum Donna was also swept to her death.

Jordan Rice and his mum Donna Rice died in the 2011 floods. Picture: contributed

Their bodies were recovered later that afternoon.

Jordan's dad John Tyson said it pained him to know his son was petrified in his last moments.

"Jordan couldn't swim but he put his fears aside to make sure his brother made it through the terrifying flood," he said.

In a heart-rending effort to have Jordan's selflessness and bravery acknowledged, Mr Tyson spent the three years following the flood, petitioning to have his son's bravery recognised.

He started a change.org page which has gone on to become one of the largest petitions in Australia.

"Time can never heal what losing them has meant for us," he said.

"We're still devastated and struggling.

"Nothing will ever bring Jordan and Donna back.

"But it would mean the world to us to have his last moments of bravery properly acknowledged."

Last March it was announced that Jordan would finally receive a bravery medal and today the medal will be presented at Government House.

It will be presented by Queensland Governor Paul de Jersey and Mr Tyson will accept the award on behalf of his son.

Blake, Donna and Jordan will also receive a Group Bravery Citation.

Mr Tyson said he was proud to accept the award that recognised his son's courage.

"I am determined more than ever to keep Jordan's legacy alive and in turn pay forward the kindness and generosity afforded to us via The Jordan Rice Foundation," he said.

"The battle may be a challenge, yet my burning desire to help others who may find themselves in similar circumstances will never wane.''

Originally published as Young hero awarded for bravery in 2011 floods