Lachlan McLaren – VIC

On 15 August 2021, in Mentone, Victoria, Lachlan McLaren displayed extraordinary bravery and selflessness while walking with his partner along Nepean Highway near the Thrift Park Shopping Centre. At approximately 5:00 pm, a vehicle traveling north on Nepean Highway veered into the southbound lanes, driving at high speed in a reckless manner. Other vehicles took evasive actions to avoid a collision. As Lachlan and his partner approached the exit to Woolworths, the vehicle crashed through the raised median, heading directly toward them. Seeing the imminent danger,

Lachlan acted swiftly, alerting his partner to move. His quick action allowed her to avoid the full impact of the vehicle. Despite his courageous attempt to save his partner, Lachlan was struck by the vehicle and tragically succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Lachlan McLaren is posthumously awarded the Posthumous Medal for his selflessness and bravery in a life-threatening situation. Without specialist training or protective measures, he acted immediately to alert his partner to move out of the vehicle’s path, ensuring her safety while placing himself in the direct path of danger with no means of escape.

The Lachlan McLaren Foundation

The Lachlan McLaren Foundation was established following Lachlan's passing.  It is a not for profit and has been created in memory of a very special young man whose life was suddenly and brutally taken from him on his 16th birthday, 15th August 2021.  Lachlan was known for his acts of kindness, and one aim of the Foundation is to create a National Random Act of Kindness Day.  You can find out more about the Foundation here