BRAVE DUO: Jax Burgoyne-Thomas, left, and brother Kaiya Burgoyne-Thomas with Sergeant Lyndon Reid outside Edgecumbe Primary School following Jax’s award for quick thinking. Photo supplied
Tamara Herdman
Ten-year-old Jax Burgoyne-Thomas has been recognised by his school and police for his quick thinking and calm response when his younger brother Kaiya was injured in a scooter accident at the Edgecumbe skatepark.
After school, nine-year-old Kaia went over the handlebars of his scooter and broke his arm in two places. His older brother Jax quickly moved Kaia to a safe spot on the grass.
Not sure what to do at first, Jax realised the Blue Light building was nearby and went to get help from them.
Jax alerted staff at the Blue Light building, explained what had happened, and left Kaia in their care. He then scootered home to get their mother.
His calm actions and responsible decision-making in an emergency earned him praise from his teacher, Michelle Dickson, and local police officer Sergeant Lyndon Reid of Whakatāne police.
At last Friday’s school assembly, Jax was presented with a certificate in recognition of his efforts.
Staff praised the example he set showing courage, care, and initiative in a stressful situation.
“Jax thought things through and did the right thing. We think he’s a bit of a hero,” said Ms Dickson.