In the late afternoon of September 10, 2016, a man armed with a hunting knife attacked his neighbour in Minto.
The injured man ran to a nearby house to seek assistance with the armed offender in pursuit.
Two people immediately placed themselves between the injured man and the aggressive and agitated offender, who continued to yell threats and abuse.
Hearing the melee, three other people rushed out of their home.
One of the three joined the pair, which distracted the offender, allowing the injured man to reach the safety of a nearby business.
The other two then joined the group and formed a barrier between the armed offender and the injured man.
An altercation ensued between two people, with one of the group hitting the offender twice with a fence paling to defend himself.
Police arrived and the offender ran towards the police vehicle, attacking it with the knife and taunting the officers.
Two people from the group went to assist the police officers.
The officers tasered the armed offender, removed the knife, and took him from the scene.
The injured man was provided with first aid until emergency services arrived.
For their bravery that day, the five civilians have been recognised with a Group Bravery Citation in the 2021 Australian Bravery Decorations.
They are Derek Ah Chong, Pearl Ah Chong, Sivei Ah Chong, the late Allice Uiga Ah Fa and David Moli Jr.
Mr Sivei Ah Chong was also awarded Bravery medal, while Mr Derek Ah Chong received a Commendation for brave conduct.
The Minto heroes were among 111 Australians whose courage and service to the community were recognized when Governor-General David Hurley announced this year’s list.
“These awards recognise the courageous actions of individuals who, in a moment of danger or peril, chose to act. They were brave, they did not hesitate and their actions made a difference,” the Governor-General said.
“On behalf of all Australians, I thank each recipient for their action and congratulate them on the recognition that they are receiving today.”
