Coach Dean Stone, players Mick Newton, Will Reilly, Zac Hedin and club official Rob Doolan came to the rescue of Wangaratta sporting legend Barry Grant, who suffered a heart attack as he was preparing the cricket pitch at the Magpies homeground.

They were among five award recipients honoured at a special event in Melbourne yesterday.

The Magpies successfully used the club’s defibrillator machine to revive Grant.

“It’s important we recognise and take inspiration as a community from the confidence that each of our heroes showed to put their own fear aside and step in to help someone in a life or death situation,” Ambulance Victoria chief executive Tony Walker said.

“It takes a community and the people recognised here today didn’t hesitate to step in when it counted, and their efforts saved lives.”

Stone said about 150 cases from across the state were nominated before the final five were chosen.

“It is a thrill to be presented with something like that,” he said.

“But even more thrilling is the fact ‘Baz’ was there to enjoy it with us.

“He is doing really well.”