Shipwreck Relief & Humane Society of NSW awarded to H.L. Pattison for saving life, Newcastle NSW, 1 Jan 1902

Date1902

Object number00015482

NameMedal

MediumSilver

DimensionsOverall: 5 x 40 mm, 0.05 kg

ClassificationsCoins and medals

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis engraved silver medal was awarded to H L Pattison by the Shipwreck, Relief and Humane Society of NSW after he saved a life at Newcastle, NSW on 1 Jan 1902. Pattison was a well known swimmer in the Newcastle area who went to the aid of a 13-year-old boy called James Blane, who was dragged out into the breakers while bathing at the surf beach. The medal was awarded just four years before Australia's first surf life saving club was formed. With a horizontal clasp to attach the medal to clothing, the medal is decorated with an engraved image of an angel and shipwreck victims, a lighthouse, a shipwrecked vessel and a manned lifeboat. Inscriptions read `Sunt lacrymae rerum sunt et sua praemia laundi', and `Awarded to H.L. Pattison for saving life Newcastle NSW. 1St. Jan. 1902'.HistoryThe Shipwreck, Relief and Humane Society of NSW formed in 1877 after the paddle steamer SS YARRA sank near Newcastle Harbour. The loss of its 17 crew members prompted the establishment of a society that could provide relief to victims' families and dependents. The Society also awarded medals to recognise bravery and heroism displayed during rescue attempts at shipwrecks and other maritime incidents. SignificanceThis medal represents recognition given for acts of bravery displayed during surf rescues in NSW. It was issued just four years prior to the formation of the first life saving club.