SALLY Gregory is studying her masters in business administration at the Tweed Heads campus of the Southern Cross University.

To many, she's a mature aged student furthering her career.

But there's much more behind her infectious smile.

She is the vice president of The Bravery Association.

The name sparks all sorts of questions as to what it is.

Basically, the organisation supports those who put their lives at risk to save lives or the environment.

They are heroes.

"Many people suffer as a result of their bravery," Ms Gregory said.

"But unlike our heroic fire fighters or rescue workers, the man or woman on the street has no protective gear," she said.

"Neither do they have the insurance, emotional or psychological back up.

"Yet they can be injured or suffer post traumatic stress."

In 1993 Ms Gregory dived into shark-infested water to save a woman whose partner had been taken by a shark.

She is one of those unsung heroes, so understands only too well how while the impulse to save a life is admirable, the event can leave scars.

"Civilians may get bravery awards," she said.

"But often they act due to a brave heart and their reward is hoping that someone will do the same for them one day or for someone else."

Volunteering Gold Coast has donated office space to the Australian Bravery Association.
A spokesperson for Volunteering Gold Coast said the organisation was proud to "support such a great cause."