Commendation for Woy Woy resident

Woy Woy resident Mr Roden Woodhams has been awarded a Certificate of Commendation by the Royal Life Saving Society for performing First Aid under traumatic circumstances, ultimately saving the life of a young man.

Mr Woodhams was at a hotel overlooking Murphy's Bay in January 2012 when he became aware of a wake boarding accident on the waterfront.

A 23-year-old man had fallen overboard and had his legs sucked into a boat propeller causing serious lacerations to both his legs.

Mr Woodhams ran towards the wharf where Marine Rescue Central Coast's Mr Andrew McKellar was performing lifesaving medical care.

Mr Woodhams assisted by holding a blood soaked towel on the right leg of the injured man which allowed Mr McKellar to commence first aid on the left leg.

Mr Woodhams assessed whether the femoral artery had been severed and continued applying first aid until paramedics arrived and the patient was airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital.

The young man's right leg was amputated and he sustained several fractures and soft tissue damage to the left knee.

The Royal Life Saving Society had high commendations for Mr McKellar and Mr Woodhams, and say there is no doubt that their actions saved the life of this young man.

A demolition foreman and asbestos demolition expert by trade, Mr Woodhams is humble about the award.

"I'd much prefer not to be getting it.

"I'd much prefer for the young fella to have both his legs and not be getting it," said Mr Woodhams.

"I'm grateful for the recognition but it's not something we need to be recognised for," he said.

Mr Woodhams was presented his award by NSW Governor General David Hurley at Government House, Sydney, on March 16.

He said the most rewarding part of the ceremony was to hear the stories of normal, ordinary people who had done extraordinary things.

Mr Woodhams said the one message he'd like to get out is: "If you're capable of helping, do it, but if you're not capable go as quickly as you can and get somebody who can help.

"Don't just stand there," he said.

Interview, 17 Mar 2016

Roden Woodhams, Woy Woy

Media kit, Royal Life Saving Society

Reporter: Jasmine Gearie