4th February, 2026.
I recognise accidental heroes, Owen Dunlop and Jessica Beach. A leading senior constable from the Hume Police District contacted me to inform me of the heroism of two not so ordinary members of the Bowral community. When they came across a confused and obviously terrified child running along Kangaloon Road, they knew they had to do something. While others around them watched and did nothing, Owen Dunlop and Jessica Beach put themselves out to rescue this young, non-verbal, autistic child who was running along this busy road in Bowral. Owen and Jessica were the only people who stopped and managed to bring this child to safety and then contacted the police. This situation could have easily ended in tragedy were it not for the unselfish actions of these passersby. The 9-year-old boy was returned to his distraught mother, unharmed, after his ordeal. Police praised the actions of these two accidental heroes who took it all in their stride and were just "happy to help". For some people, helping others can feel like a hindrance. I do not believe they understand the impact their actions have had on preventing an almost likely tragedy from occurring. I thank them both.