Thirty-one brave youngsters have been honoured today for their heroic and life-saving actions in the face of an emergency at the 14th annual Junior Triple Zero Hero Awards.

Local Member for Eastern Metropolitan Region, Shaun Leane congratulated the Triple Zero Hero in Manningham who received Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) awards for keeping calm under pressure and calling Victoria’s triple zero service to seek assistance.

Among the award winners was Jake Ruzicka who knew just what to do when faced with an emergency.

10-year-old Jake called triple zero for his mum who had a numb face and thought she was having a stroke

Mr Leane said these stories of bravery are a perfect reminder to all Victorians about the importance of teaching children how to identify, confidently react to and report legitimate emergencies by calling triple zero.

In 2016–17, ESTA answered more than 2.5 million calls for assistance across Victoria, an average of almost 7000 calls each day or a call every 12 seconds.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Metropolitan Region, Shaun Leane

“ESTA’s triple zero operators work under pressure to help Victorians who need help, responding to nearly 7000 calls a day.”

“I am very proud to see our local Triple Zero Hero being recognised for his brave actions in the face of a crisis.”

“I thank our young heroes for showing everyone how vital it is to remain calm and know what to do in an emergency.”

Note: Audio of Award Heroes’ calls is available for media. For more information, contact the ESTA Media Line on 1300 783 462