Bali Bombings hero in Broome

Bali bombings hero and Cross of Valour recipient Tim Britten will pay tribute to inspiring citizens and volunteers when he makes his Australia Day address in Broome next Thursday.

WA Police Sergeant Britten, who is the 2017 Australia Day Ambassador, is being hosted by the Shire of Broome and will make a special appearance at this year’s community breakfast at Town Beach.

The long-serving policeman said he was thrilled to be the Australia Day Ambassador for the National Australia Day Council.

“It’s a great honour and I think Australia Day has so much meaning to so many Australians and to actually be available to be part of new citizenship ceremonies and festivities around Australia Day just honours me beyond words.”

As well as sharing what it personally means to be an Australian, Sgt Britten will also briefly talk about his role in the 2002 Bali bombings.

The courageous policeman was bestowed Australia’s highest civilian bravery award in 2003 when he put his life on the line in the immediate aftermath of the attack by repeatedly entering the burning Sari Club to rescue a seriously injured woman and to search for survivors.

He was on secondment to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in East Timor and was in Bali on leave at the time.

“It was a very terrible night but some of Australia’s greatest traits that we can ever hope to have as human beings came to the fore that night and I saw some amazing things happen and some amazingly courageous people suffering bravely and quietly and it’s something I’ll never forget,” he said.

“Through the tragedy of that night, it’s given me a voice and allowed me to have these opportunities where I can actually try and make a difference and pass some of my thoughts and opinions on and use my experiences to help others.”

Sgt Britten said he would also talk about the importance of community and the significant roles that volunteers play and encourage residents to contribute in any way they can.

“Everyone plays a part, especially in our regional communities, that we live and breathe on volunteers - our fire brigades, ambulance officers, SES, our marine volunteers,” he said.

“Everyone can volunteer, regardless of your position in the community, can make a difference.

“What greater day to commence your New Year resolution to commence being a valued member of the community by starting up and volunteering.”

The community breakfast will be held from 8am, hosted by the Lions and Lioness and Rotary clubs of Broome and Roebuck Lodge.

A cooked breakfast will be available from 8am for a $2 donation.