Two local firefighters representing Fire and Rescue NSW, along with 13 Shoalhaven firefighters, have been recognised for their heroic actions that saved the life of their colleague who collapsed while battling a house fire. 

In mid February, Senior Firefighter Peter Bugden, from Kiama Downs, raised the alarm that a fellow firefighter had collapsed inside a Nowra home that was engulfed in flames. Station Officer Sean Doohan, from Gerringong, sprang into action kicking the rear door down and crawling through thick smoke and heat to untangle his colleague.

Pre-emptively preparing a defibrillator, Peter joined forces with Senior Firefighter Ben Ingle, from Bomadary, in dragging the unconscious firefighter to safety.

The courageous trio then worked tirelessly to perform CPR and use the defibrillator in tandem with police and arriving fire crews until paramedics could arrive. 

Station Officer Sean Doohan with children Sam, Ethan, Abby and Angus

Whilst the distressing scene was unfolding, crews on scene continued to distinguish the fire and rescue the several family pets that were trapped inside.

The collapsed firefighter has since made a full recovery and, with his family, is incredibly thankful to his own crew’s efforts on that day.

Each firefighter has been recognised with the Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service with Sean also receiving the Courageous Action Commendation, awarded on St Florian’s Day – a day where firefighters come together to applaud volunteers and staff who have gone above and beyond.

As a firefighter for over 20 years, Sean says the event is right up there with the worst scenarios.  

Senior Firefighter Peter Bugden, wife Julie and family

"Our training enabled us to do everything we possibly could to give our mate the best chance of survival, with on scene paramedics doing an incredible job," says Sean.

He is humbled by the recognition and emphasises the importance of teamwork. 

“We wouldn’t have been able to do it without being a team. The three of us working together is the reason why we managed to get him out and keep him alive.”