Modern Australian Magazine
Men's Weekly

.

Unlock Durability And Beauty With Burnt Timber Cladding Solutions

Imagine a home or commercial space that not only stands the test of time but also tells a story through its very facade. In the world of architectur...

Offroad Caravans: Built for Adventure Beyond the Beaten Track

Australia’s vast and varied landscapes invite travellers to explore far beyond sealed roads and crowded parks. Offroad caravans are purpose-built ...

The Expert's Guide to Understanding Large Bore Steel Pipe Specifications

When it comes to infrastructure, construction, and various industrial applications, the choice of materials is paramount. Among the options availabl...

Preparing for Your First Trip to San Francisco in 2026

San Francisco has long occupied a particular place in the Australian imagination. It is compact yet complex, progressive but historic, and visually st...

Modern Office Painting in Australia - It's the Real Game Changer

Walk into any modern Australian office today and you'll be struck by the fact it's a whole different beast from the ones we grew up with. Gone are t...

How to Choose the Right Suburb for Your Lifestyle

Choosing the right suburb is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying or renting a home. Beyond the property itself, the suburb...

Considering Cryolipolysis Fat Freezing? Here’s What You Need to Know

Body confidence can shift over time, and sometimes even good diet and training can still leave a stubborn area of fat that won’t budge. If you’r...

From Local Tradie to Digital Leader: The Strategy Behind Auto Gate Guys Sydney’s Growth

For many small trade businesses, digital marketing still feels like a buzzword, not a necessity. They rely on word-of-mouth referrals, repeat clients...

Electric Automation System: Smarter Control for Modern Electrical Infrastructure

Modern buildings and industrial facilities are increasingly dependent on intelligent control and efficiency. An electric automation system brings t...

The Damp Truth: Why Your Overflowing Gutters Are an Open Invitation for Termites

When it comes to protecting your home, most people think about visible threats — storm damage, cracked tiles, break-ins. But one of the most destruc...

Is Your Inventory a Sitting Duck? 2 Critical Upgrades to Protect Your Business Assets and Your Bottom Line

Imagine this: you finish a long day on the job, lock up your tools, materials, and work vehicle in the garage, and head home. But overnight, someone b...

Electrician in Melbourne: Reliable Electrical Solutions for Homes and Businesses

Finding a dependable electrician Melbourne is essential when safety, efficiency, and long-term performance matter. Electrical systems form the back...

Jodie & Soda rallied the community to make Alex the 'best firefighter ever'

  • Written by Tina Liptai

 

Adelaide has a new pint-size hero after Mix 102.3's Jodie & Soda rallied the community to make Alex the 'best firefighter ever'

 
 
Adelaide has a new pint-sized hero after eight-year-old Alex Tann, who suffers from brain cancer which has taken away his sight, miraculously rescued two of the city’s most high profile AFL footballers from a “burning  building” in the CBD’s iconic Beehive Corner this afternoon.

The elaborate stunt was all part of Mix102.3’s Jodie & Soda’s ‘Make Alex’s Day’ campaign to help Alex realise his dream of becoming “the best firefighter ever” - Listen to Alex’s story here

For the past four weeks, Alex’s story has captured the hearts of Mix 102.3 listeners with hundreds of donations, suggestions and support pouring in from people all over the city to help make Alex the ‘best firefighter ever’.

Alex was made the Honorary Chief Officer of the South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service and at midday when the fire alarm went he was sent out on an important rescue mission to save the historic Beehive Corner Building in Rundle Mall from being “engulfed in flames”.

Accompanied by a police escort as part of a convoy through the streets of Adelaide Alex arrived at the building, wearing a custom-made firefighters uniform, and bravely boarded a cherry picker to hose down the flames.

Cheered on by thousands of fans and onlookers, Alex reached the building only to find Port Adelaide AFL player Travis Boak and Adelaide’s AFLW star Erin Phillips trapped inside.

Alex rescued the footballers and once everyone was safely back on the ground, the little hero was thanked by the South Australian

Premier Jay Weatherill, Lord Mayor Martin Haese and SA Metropolitan Fire Service Chief Officer Greg Crossman and given an award for his bravery.

Alex was also presented with an award from Mix 102.3’s Jodie & Soda, written in braille, declaring him the “best firefighter ever”.

Alex’s proud father, Phil Tann, told The Advertiser the support they had received was “absolutely mind-blowing”.

He said the trip from the MFS headquarters on Wakefield St to Rundle Mall was “an emotional rollercoaster I didn’t expect”.

“I got so emotional seeing the sheer volume of people lining the streets for Alex,” he said.

“This is my little boy and these people are out here to support him. It really has been such a wild ride.”

Alex was diagnosed with brain cancer when he was just three-years-old suffering from multiple tumours in his brain and irreparable damage to his optic nerve which resulted in the loss of all vision. Listen to his story here.

Jodie & Soda rallied the community to make this a day to remember for little Alex, with the entire city of Adelaide getting behind this campaign to make his dream come true.

There are more than 400 children like Alex and his family that need support right now. Help the Childhood Cancer Association to provide ongoing and practical hands on support for children with cancer and their families by heading to www.donate.childhoodcancer.asn.au and make a donation today.

Photo credit: Meaghan Coles


 

"Alex’s proud father, Phil Tann, told The Advertiser the support they had received was “absolutely mind-blowing”"

 
 

To feature on Modern Australian please contact News Company

 

 

Holidays & Travel

Preparing for Your First Trip to San Francisco in 2026

San Francisco has long occupied a particular place in the Australian imagination. It is compact yet complex, progressive but historic, and visually striking without feeling overwhelming. For first-time visitors, the...

Top Safety and Comfort Features to Consider in Family Off Road Caravans

Exploring Australia’s coastline, bush tracks or outback locations is far more enjoyable when travelling in a caravan designed for both comfort and durability. Many families browsing caravans for sale do...

Barbecue Boats – The New Must-Have for Retirees!

When your working years are behind you, it’s time to kick back and relax. You’ve earned it! And there’s no better way to do that than by purchasing your very...

7 Ways a Luxury Australian Cruise Transforms Your Travel Expectations

Dreaming of your next holiday? Forget the crowded tourist traps and consider something truly special: a luxury australian cruise. More than just a holiday, it's a transformative experience that will redefine...

Affordable Invisalign in Bangkok Why Australians Are Choosing Thailand

More Australians are investing in Invisalign to straighten their teeth, but the treatment in Australia can cost thousands of dollars and often takes months just to begin. As a result...

The Power of Giving Back: How Volunteering Shapes Your Mindset

To say the least, volunteering can maximally change the way you see the world. Period. When you step into someone else’s shoes, even for a few hours, you start noticing...

7 Best Things to Do in Beaufort, Victoria

Beaufort is a charming small town in Victoria’s Goldfields, full of history, natural beauty, and warm, welcoming locals. Whether you’re passing through or planning a weekend escape, Beaufort offers experiences...

Perth Airport Transfers: Choosing the Right Service

Touching down in a new city can be exciting, but let's be honest, it can also be a bit stressful. After a long flight, the last thing you want to...

How to Save Smart: Cheapest Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa without Cutting Corners

Picture this: you’ve found a last-minute flight to Milan, your hotel booking comes with breakfast and a rooftop view, and your itinerary is ready for a whirlwind of museums, mountains...

Fashion & Beauty

Expert-Led Solutions for Clear Complexions

Many people struggle with acne at different stages of their lives, and the journey toward clearer skin often feels overwhelming. Breakouts affect not only appearance but also confidence, comfort, and...

Is Long-Term Pigmentation Correction Possible?

Many individuals struggle with pigmentation concerns that affect how their skin appears and how they feel about themselves. These darkened patches, spots, or uneven tones can develop from sun exposure...

What to Know When Researching a Tummy Tuck on the Gold Coast

Body confidence is something many people seek to improve as they move through different stages of life. Pregnancy, weight fluctuations and ageing can all lead to stretched skin, weakened abdominal...

Laser Skin Tightening: The Non-Surgical Way to Restore Youthful, Firm Skin

As we age, our skin naturally begins to lose its elasticity and firmness due to reduced collagen and elastin production. For those seeking to restore their skin’s youthful tone without...

Beyond the Hype: Why Breitling Speaks to the Modern Watch Collector

There’s a point every collector reaches when the chase for the latest release gives way to a deeper appreciation for quality. The thrill of new models fades, and the focus...

Restoring Volume and Style with Human Hair Toppers for Women

Hair plays a significant role in confidence and self-expression, but thinning hair and hair loss can affect women at any stage of life. While wigs provide a complete solution, many...