Pilot and Officer Honored for Heroic Katherine Flood Rescue

A helicopter pilot and a police officer have received medals from the Northern Territory's chief minister for their bravery during a dramatic rescue from floodwaters in Katherine earlier this year. The remarkable feat, captured on camera, showed the helicopter pilot skillfully maneuvering the aircraft to rest a strut on a teetering four-wheel drive, allowing the police officer to pull two people and a dog to safety.

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looked spectacular

Pilot John Armstrong downplayed the difficulty of the rescue, stating it involved relatively simple flying compared to other aspects of his work. However, Senior Constable Ben Parfitt, who performed the direct rescue from the vehicle, expressed gratitude for being in the right place at the right time. He emphasized that many in the Northern Territory Police Force go above and beyond daily, often without recognition.

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lucky to have been in the right place at the right time

Senior Constable Parfitt dedicated his award to the broader emergency services and volunteers who contributed during the Katherine floods. Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro commended Parfitt for his "total selflessness and great courage," stating he went "above and beyond the call of duty." Parfitt, a search-and-rescue specialist, finds his work rewarding, particularly when lives can be saved.

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Every person in a blue uniform in the Northern Territory Police Force goes above and beyond … every day, a lot of it is not witnessed or acknowledged

Both Armstrong and Parfitt were among 29 individuals recognized for their contributions during the Katherine flood as part of Territory Day celebrations. Katherine resident Trent de With, who provided vital information through live social media updates during the flood and assisted in post-flood clean-ups, was also honored. Local landscaper Ben Hockey was recognized for his extensive sandbagging efforts.

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total selflessness and great courage