Mia Wood receives Bravery Award for saving her mum and sister after horror crash

Little Mia Wood was just seven years old when the car her family was travelling in hit a steel barrier on the Kwinana Freeway, rolling several times before landing on its roof.

The impact was so severe the driver passed away at the scene and Mia’s mother lost consciousness. Miraculously, Mia escaped serious injury and fearing the vehicle would catch fire, sprang into action to rescue her family. First, unbuckling her five-year-old sister Aria, and pulling her out of the broken window before trying to rouse her mother, who was unresponsive in the front passenger seat.

“Mum was unconscious so I went in to wake her up and I pulled her out of the car,” Mia told The West Australian.

“I kept tapping her and as soon as I saw her eyes open, I kept trying to pull her out of the car. I had to drag mum from the front seat all the way to the back window to get her out.”

Now aged nine, Mia has been recognised for her incredibly heroic efforts that evening, receiving a Royal Life Saving WA Gold Medallion Bravery Award at a special ceremony held at Kings Park.

“Mia did not let fear get the best of her and without hesitation saved her sister and mum. At such a young age, her ability to think clearly and remain calm in a frightening situation is admirable,” said a spokesperson from Royal Life Saving.

Mia’s grandmother, Deb Cabala, says her granddaughter is a hero, and undoubtedly saved her mother and sister’s lives.

“I’m super, super proud of what she did. If she hadn’t, they could be dead.”

Royal Life Saving WA commends the outstanding efforts of members of the community, who attempt to provide assistance, rescue or resuscitation during an emergency. If you know of anyone in the community who has done just this, you can nominate them for a Bravery Award at the link below: